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PRINCIPLES OF WAR

General Carl von Clausewitz' historic "memorandum" on military strategy in


Total War. Translated, annotated, and with introduction by Hans \Y/. Gatzke.
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W AR IN THE 'VEST II" U.,\.X...:L \'ILI<'1I0"


Thrilling, first-hand story of the fall of France, written by a French staff officer
with rare ability to analyze and interpret both military strategy and the national
morale which cracked under the Nazi blitzkrieg. PRICE: $2.50

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Complete-in-itself, first volume of a new type history of
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analysis of past mistakes and the evolution of the German
airforce. Written to provide accurate information, and not
to start new controversies.
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Commalldos ill Actioll: Morale, The Real Secret Weapoll:

ENGINEERS IN BATTLE PSYCHOLOGY AND THE


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Exciting account of Nazi Engineer By PROF. NORMAN COPELAND
Corps in action, overcoming obstacles A clear, frank and easily readable dis-
which United Nations' Rangers, Com- cussion of fear, sex, discipline, physical
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ments contributing to a victorious mili-
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COASTARTlllERY
JOURNAL
FOUNDED IN 1892 AS THE JOURNAL OF THE UNITED STATES ARTILLERY

VOLUME LXXXV SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER, 1942 NUMBER 5

CONTENTS

I
I
I
GUARDIANS. OEM Photo by Palmer Cover
THE CHURCH OF THE CENTURION. (PhotograPh) 2 I
I
WAR PLANES OF THE AXIS. By David C. Cooke 4 I

I!
GIVE US LEADERS-." By Lieutenallt G. H. Dresser 12
TRAINING THE AUTOMATIC WEAPONS FIRE UNIT. By Major Herbert F. Mitchell 17
DEFLECTION BOARD Ml. By Captaill Johll T. Keltoll " 26
BARRAGE BALLOONS. By Lieutellallt Colollel lVilliam H. Kelldall alld Captaill Ralph H. Redford 35
BARRAGE BALLOONS AT SEA. (Pictures) 38
:tHE TASK AHEAD. By Major General Joseph A. Greell 40
THE GERMAN 88MM GUN. By Colollel James C. Crockett 43
MORALE? IT'S WONDERFULl By Afajor Roger lV. Chickerillg '" 46
ANTIAIRCRAFT COMMUNICATIONS. By Lieutenallt Colonel Peter J. Steve1lSoll 50
SIGHT DISPLACEMENT AND ITS CORRECTION. By Captain Earle D. Button 52
SENDING ADOLF A WIRE. (Pictures) 60
tHE GERMAN SOLDIER 61 II
EN THE CAMERA FAILS. By Major C. H. Treat 65 II
AILWAY MACl-IINE SHOP CARS. By IHajor Frmlklill lV. Reese 66
II
"NGLE WARFARE (Part III) 68
I
AST ARTILLERY BOARD NOTES 73
TIAIRCRAFT ARTILLERY BOARD 76 I
EWS AND COMMENT
AST ARTILLERY ACTIVITIES
78
85
L
OK REVIEWS 116

PUBLICATION DATE: OCTOBER 1, 1942

";bed bi'monthly by the United States Coast Artillery Association. Editorial and executi"e offices. 1115 Se\'enteenth Street. X.W.,
.- Ington. D. C. Terms: $4.00 per year. (Coast Artillery Association members, $3.00 per year.) Single copies. 75c. Entered as second.
Inatter at \'ashington, D. C.; additional entry at Richmond. Va., under the Act of :liarch 3. 1879. Copyright. ] P 12 by the united
t!:I Coast Artillery Association.
T

The Air Force of Germanv was not officially consti-


tuted until Februarv 26. 1935. And while it '~'as then
composed of only a' few formations consisting of units
trained in secret and in a most elementary manner dur-
ing the period of demobilization, it became in the span
of just four short years a powerful instrument of at-
tack ... more powerful, in fact, than the combined
strength of France. England, and Poland at the out-
break of the second \\Torld \Var.
This expansion of German airpower was not, how-
ever, undertaken in any haphazard fashion, utilizing
any planes of any make or design. Rather, it was realized
in a methodical and highly efficient fashion, after the
Luftwaffe was at last officially organized by Hitler on
March 1, 1935.
\Vhile the German Air Force was in the formative
state, it is true that civil aircraft were converted to mili-
tary types, and the first war pilots were drawn from the
Delltsclle Luft/lama airline company and from pilot
and ex-pilot organizations whose members had been
trained for transport flying by Lufthansa or had been
given regular refresher courses. At the same time, hun-
dreds of sport and sailplane clubs, with memberships of
several hundred thousand, formed a tremendous reser-
voir from which future aircrews and ground personnel
could be drawn. From this, then, it is apparent that the

so-called "mushroom" growth of German airpower was


not, as far as pilots were concerned, a military miracle,
but actually a well-planned scheme whereby Byers were
trained to some extent for war duties through the use
of peacetime sailplane clubs which were, on the surface,
organized for sport purposes.
By the same token, the aircraft situation is by no
means a miracle as far as numbers are concerned. \Vhile
our country was building a possible fifty-three machines
of a certain design, the German experimental models
were given thorough testing and, if found suitable, their
designs were "locked." The ships were then put into
production on a mass scale, with several factories in
some cases building the same type.
Too, the aircraft factories from which the thousands
of warplanes rolled were well-planned, years in advance
in some instances. To quote from Major Al \Villiams'
remarkable book, Airpower, page 171: "I was taken to
a building in Berlin which appeared to be completely
--
filled with file cabinets of blueprints. It was explained
tome that in the days before the rebirth of the German
selTice in Spain, thus gammg valuable experience
which pilots of other countries had not. \Vhen that
aircraft industry eac'h set of plans was laid aside as soon war came to an end, the Nazis had a well-seasoned air
as it was completed, and a more modern and more ef- army, planes, and tactics which had been proved in
ficient factory planned on the drafting board, down to actual combat.
the last bolt and nut." This explains how such mod- "'hen the Battle of Poland began on September 1,
ern factories were built in only five or six months. 1939, the Germans threw an estimated 5,000 planes,
Because of the Nazi conception of state government, or approximately 75 per cent of their total airpower,
Fieldl\Iarshal Herman Goering had an almost free hand into combat against some 800 Polish machines. \\lith
in developing and expanding the German Air Force. perfect cooperation between the LlIftwaffe and other
Huge sums of money were expended, completely with- units of the lVehrmac7zt, Germam' was able to domi-
out interference, for the mighty air armada that had nate Poland in four weeks. Div~ bombing was spe-
been envisioned. Therein is probably the main reason cialized to a greater degree than before, and it was dis-
for the amazing growth of the Luftwaffe into the most covered that attacks against fleeing civilians were also
powerful air arm the world had ever seen. Indeed, when highly effective. According to the German plan, mod-
the English Sir John Simon and Anthony Eden visited ern warfare is not necessaril" a battle merel" between
Berlin in 1934, Hitler told them that the German Air armed forces; any means to' achieve compl~te victory
Force was as strong as, if not stronger than, Britain's was and is not only permissible but necessary.
RoyalAir Force. The part German aviation played in the Battle of
Byjoining General Francisco Franco's Spanish forces France is well known bv all who have followed news-
in 1936 the Luftwaffe was able to utilize an actual war paper accounts of the' war. Aircraft were sent in
prO\'ing ground for testing the military versatility of droves to bomb, strafe and destrov all militarv objectives,
German aircraft. The Nazis did not participate in that even though they left the majori~y of village's and towns
war merely out of love for Franco; they had to know jf untouched. And it is usually said that airpower was a
their planes were as good as they believed, if the tactics major factor in the defeat of France. In this connection,
their military strategists had worked out were really Pierre Cot, who was the French Air :Minister from
effective,and if airpower was really a potent factor in 1933 to 1934 and from 1936 to 1937, stated the fol-
modernwarfare-as potent a factor as they had believed, lowing:
that is. Barcelona and other Spanish cities, towns, and "At the beginning of May, 1940, the Germans had

illageswere bombed by German forces during that war, about 7,000 first-line planes. They concentrated for
lJotso much to show their strength against defenseless the battle over France and the Low Countries practi-
civilian positions as to determine once and for all cally all their forces and reserves, leaving in Norway
hether dive-bombing and pattern-bombing could be and along their extended eastern frontiers only effectives
done with devastating effectiveness. They could-and of small importance. A total of approximately 6,000
helessonsof Warsaw, Coventry, and Rotterdam proved planes were actually used in the attack on Holland,
Ibat the German line of reasoning had been correct. It Belgium, and France. Thanks to Germany's supply of
estimated that more than 50,000 German airmen saw reserve crews and machines, the number did not de-
crease throughout i'vIayand June.
"France did the opposite. The French Air Force re-

y Daoid C. Cooke mained dispersed and strung out. A thousand planes


were left on the Mediterranean (approximately 600 in
North Africa at the disposal of the land forces and 350
Photos by Army Air Forces at the disposal of the Navy) and 400 planes were left in
the Alps, facing Italy, not yet a belligerent. Germany
attacked us with 80 per cent of her total Air Force. \Ve
opposed it with only 40 per cent of an already insuffi-
*From If/ar Planes of the Axis, by David C. Cooke. Reproduced by
permission of Robert M. McBride and Company.
6 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October 1

Focke Wulf 190, new German fighter.

cient Air Force. The bad strategy produced a real and were thus able to offer effective resistance. Too, it
catastrophe. The Vichy Government declares that, on is admitted by the British that, had the Nazi attacks
June 12, only 500 modern planes were left in France to continued, despite heavy losses, the Germans would
oppose 5,000 planes. This may be true, for thanks to have been able to beat the English ta their knees be-
the lack of provision of the French General Staff our cause of the overwhelming quantity of airplanes at the
aviators had to fight one to five and sometimes one to disposal of the Luftwaffe. Such, however, was not the
seven against the Germans, when it ought to have been case, and the British were able, through American help.
possible for them to fight one against two. to reequip their almost depleted Royal Air Force and
"To the 6,000 airplanes which Germany threw into turn defense into offense. Further the British strength
the Battle of France, the French and British could grew to such an extent that they were able to ship 9,000
easily have opposed 3,000 airplanes. The British ex- military planes abroad in ]94].
perience at Dunkirk in June and in their own isles in The German Luftwaffe, at this writing, is made up
September proved that a proportion of one to two is of some 1,500,000 men, and, according to T. P. 'Wright
sufficient for a good General Staff to organize an effect- of the \tVar Production Board, more than 40,000 air-
ive resistance. \tVe all know that the defensive needs planes. (In a German-language short-wave radio broad-
fewer forces than the offensive. But what the British cast of recent date, the Nazis stated that they have more
General Staff achieved by careful concentration and than 50,000 war planes in service and that new ma-
skillful utilization of their units, the French General chines are being built at the rate of 2,500 per week.
Staff was incapable of doing. Comment is superfluous \Vhile this production rate may sound too incredibly
on their decision to leave in North Africa one-third of high to be plausible, it must be remembered that even
their Air Forces at a moment when the Nazis were at- at the beginning of the war German factories were said
tacking our metropolitan area with all their might." to have been turning out between 2,000 and 2,500
As even Prime Minister \tVinstan Churchill ad- planes per month. \Vith factories now operating in
mitted, the biggest mistake that Hitler made in prose- all occupied countries, it seems logical, if this earlier
cuting a final end to the war was the lapse of time be- figure was correct, that production could have been
tween the fall of France and the aerial offensive against stepped up to 2,500 machines per week. Germany has
England, for the first large-scale attacks against Britain been geared for war production much longer than the
were not made for nearly two months after the defeat United States and our country's plan calls for 60,~
of France. In that period, after the evacuation of Dun- planes in 1942 and 125,000 in ]943, meaning a ship
kirk, the British had reorganized their beaten forces every eight minutes during 1942 and one every four
---
1942 \VAR PLANES OF THE AXIS 7
minutes during 1943. If we are able to do this. it is properties. the Germans developed a magnesium alloy
entirely possible, and even probable that the Germans that was highly successful for aircraft use. l\lagnesium
can complete a plane every four minutes to make the salts are plentiful in Germany and, under the German
2.500 per week figure a reality. Also remember that at system. their utilization is very simple. This metal is
the end of the last war Germanv turned over to the only about two-thirds the weight of aluminum, so it was
Allies approximately 16,000 aircraft and was building at only logical that the Germans turned to its use for air-
the rate of 2,100 per month. And that was before the craft production, where weight is important. After
da,'s of pre-fabrication, mass production, or machine- France was defeated, of course, the country's aluminum
m~de parts. deposits were exploited by the conquerors, 'because mag-
From the latest available information, the German nesium has its drawbacks and is not as adaptable as
:\ir Force is divided into five Fleets. Thev were lo- aluminum for man v installations.
cated (l\hrch, 1942) as follows: Fleet One-before Finally, another' secret of the astounding German
Leningrad; Fleet Two-behind Smolensk; Fleet Three successes in operations against France and other coun-
-facing Britain; Fleet Four-in the Ukraine; Fleet Five tries is the first law of military strategy: decentraliza-
-in Finland and Northern Norway. Leningrad, Libya. tion. There are more than 1,000 military air fields and
and the Balkans are named as battle points of the three landing areas within the boundaries of pre-war Ger-
independent Richthofen Stuka Corps. Each Fleet con- many alone, and this figure has been greatly increased
sistsof two Divisions, reinforced by an independent air by existing or newly-built fields in occupied countries,
corps. Each Division is made up of a number of especially in Holland, Belgium, Denmark, France, Nor-
bomber groups, usually three, a fighter group, and a way, and Poland. Squadrons change their bases fre-
reconnaissance \iVing. A Corps consists of at least two quently in order to make enemy reconnaissance and
fighter groups and one reconnaissance-bomber group. attack more difficult. Because of this, it is not surprising
One or two Divisions of Naval Aviation are added to that many Luftwaffe pilots shot down over Britain were
the front-line units. found to be carrying suitcases; they had received orders
In most countries aluminum and aluminum allovs are to land at new bases instead of returning to the old ones.
used to a great extent in the fabrication of airplanes, Under no circumstances should we in this country
but in Germany that metal is very scarce. Because of underestimate the strength of the German Air Force or
this fact, many people could not understand how the the ability of Nazi pilots. \iVhile it is true that the
Nazis were and are able to build so many airplanes. Germans lost very heavily in operations against Britain,
The answer is magnesium. \Vhile metallurgists in that was only because they were on the offensive. Now
other countries had been experimenting with magnes- that the Roval Air Force has taken to offensive missions
ium, but only sparingly because of its highly corrosive over Germ~ny, the list of English casualties has been

He 112, older type of German fighter.


8 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-Octoher

Ju 87 (Stuka).

almost double the losses of the defending Germans, as of prototypes on test to replace these obsolescent models.
revealed by British Air Ministry figures. Combat rec- It was at the Zurich International Meeting in July,
ords prove that German men and machines are good 1937, that the chosen successors were introduced; they
-probably as good as any to be found elsewhere-and were the Heinkel He. 112, and the Messerschmitt 1\ Ie.
we must constantly remember that now that we are in 109. At that time the planes gave some indication of
this war to the end. their performance in competitive events, the l\/le. 109
being particularly successful. One IVlesserschmitt, flown
GERl\IAN FIGHTERS by Major Seidmann, won the Alpine Circuit Race at an
As with the fighters of other countries, Germany's average speed of 240.9 m.p.h. (This, of course, did not
fighters were built with an eye to speed, maneuverabil- represent anything like the top speed, for on April
ity, fire-power and strength. And while the manuever- 26, 1939, Fritz \iVendel reached 469.225 m.p.h. in a
ability factor was not stressed as much as it possibly somewhat similar machine. This figure now stands as
should have been, as lessons against RAF craft of simi- the world's official absolute speed record, even though
lar types h/lVe proved, the question of speed was and is many other planes have since turned in speeds of more
of utmost Importance. Since the entire Wehnnacht is than 500 m.p.h.) Another, Hawn by Karl Franke,
based on speed, this view is entirely understandable. climbed to 9,842 feet and dived back to ?85 feet in 2
The Germans also realized that aerial fighting in this minutes 6 seconds.
new war would be far different from that of the first Both the Me. 109 and the He. 112, like other first-
\"orld \Var, that it would be not so much a matter of line German fighters, were cleaned up considerably be-
dueling as of punching with a lethal hook and running. fore being put into production on a large scale. They
Even so, the fighter types were selected carefully before
were fitted with heavy armament, armor, leak-proof fuel
being put into mass production, and thoroughness in-
tanks and more powerful engines.
stead of speed was the keynote at that time.
Initially, fighter squadrons of the Luftwaffe were DAS STURZKAJ\IPFFLUGZEUG
equipped with Heinkel He. 51 and Arado Ar. 68 bi-
planes which were definitely unspectacular in per- 1\ liBtary air tactics have gone through a great revO-
formance. For some time there was much conjecture as lution since the davs of the first \Vorld \-Var. Then.
to the planes which would be selected from a number air fighting was di:ected almost entirely against other
1942 WAR PLANES OF THE AXIS 9
Rvin
I
a
,::,
machines and the most potent of all war craft another way, they are better suited to this duty than
was the fighter. All of this has now been changed, how- submarines, because they are inexpensive in compari-
c,'er, by the strategy employed by the Axis in the cur- son, because thev can attack swiftly and elude attack on
rent war. themselves, and' because they ca~ return to bases for
The now famous "workhorse" of the German Luft- more bombs if necessary. I

waffe is the dreaded Stuka (Stuka, as you have probably In dive bombing the bombs are released as the ma-
lY3theredfrom the chapter heading, is a contraction of chine is pulled out of a dive and not, as is commonly
~he word SturzknlllpfFlIgzellg which simply means believed, while it is being aimed directly at the target.
fighter dive bomber). The battle operations of these The reason for this is the fact that the bomb does not
craft are to cooperate with infantry troops in destroying travel in a straight line after release. Penetration is as
ground objectives, to penetrate where other and heavier great as that of a bomb dropped from a machine flying
bombers cannot reach, and to demoralize civilians and straight and level at a greater height, since the dive
troops by use of their hideously screaming bombs. And gives additional velocity to the projectile. This, of
it can never be said that these ships were not utterly course, does not hold true for heights above which the
effective in Poland, Norway, Holland, Belgium, and terminal velocity of the bomb is attained.
France. In Rotterdam, for instance, Stuka planes de- As far as is k~own, German dive-bombing tactics are
stroyed 26,000 buildings and killed 25,000 civilians in generally the same as those of the other Powers. \i\1hen
an attack which lasted only two and one-half hours. an individual machine is attacking on its own, the
Those figures constitute the greatest mass destruction usual system, if conditions are suitable, is to dive out
c\'er witnessed in warfare. of the ;un to handicap the aim and visibility of antiair-
Stukas are not only effective against land objectives, craft gunners who are likely to be concentrated around
but they have proved to a skeptical world that they can the military objectives which are the targets of the dive
alsobe used with great success against merchant marine bombers. The element of surprise may also be possible
and seapower as a whole. In the role of commerce raid- in cloudy or poor flying weather. Specialized dive-
ers, however, dive bombers are not as effective in one bomber squadrons practice converging attacks in order
way as submarines, because their aim with heavy to confuse ground defenses.
bombs must be accurate on the first dive, and because Attacks are usually started from a considerable height
they cannot shell surface vessels as U-boats can; in -about 10,000 feet-and the pilot may "corkscrew" his

Span-103'O"
--, ....
--,
Maximum Speed - 310 m.p.h.
Length- 67' 0" Service Ceiling- 26,000'
Range - 3,400 miles
German long range bomber (He 177).
10 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October

Do 18, German Seaplane.

machine on its ailerons on the way down to bafHe bombers) in their Swedish branch works before 1933."
further the gunners on the ground. The final aiming The Swedish machine referred to was the K-47, a t\\'o
dive is made at an angle of 60 to 90 degrees and the seater with a 600-h.p. B.iVl.W. engine. Bombing trials
bomb is released at a height of from 1,000 to 3,000 feet, conducted with this craft by the Swedish government
after which the pilot makes his plane as inconspicuous are said to have given results which have not been
as possible to evade ground fire. surpassed up to the present.
Since the introduction of monoplanes as dive bomb- The Ju. 87, which is a direct descendant of the K-47,
ers, it has been found necessary to fit some form of is exceptionally easy to recognize because of its sharply
air brake to limit the diving speed (and consequently cranked wing and fixed undercarriage. It was nrst
the pull-out stresses on machine and pilot) and to per- seen in public at Nuremberg in September, 1938, and
mit a closer approach to the target. The diving speed was used effectively in the Spanish Civil \Var. It saw
may also be limited by the use of a reversible-pitch much service in Poland, Norway, Holland, Belgium,
propeller of the type which has been developed in France, Greece and all other countries in which Ger-
Germany by the V.D.l'vl. concern. Before these devices man operations were carried on. Currently, this craft is
became available, it is said that German dive-bombing being operated against Russian and English land ob-
pilots used to tuck their heads between their knees to jectives and shipping.
minimize the effect of gravity during the pull out. A MEDIUM AND HEAVY BOl\lBERS
special transparent port, at that time, was fitted in the
floor of the cockpit for sighting purposes. According to reports from Royal Air Force flyers,
The most widely employed and effective dive bomb- Germany's bombing planes, as a whole, are under-
ers in service with the Luftwaffe are the Junkers Ju. 87 gunned and somewhat blind, and are thus more vulner-
(pronounced Yoonkers) two seaters. A standard single able than similar American and British machines. These
seater is the Henschel Hs. 123 biplane. In addition, the reports are confirmed by the fact that the Germans so
single-seat Blohm and Voss Ha. 137 and the two-seat far have shown little faith in multigunned power-op-
Heinkel machines are used extensivelv. erated turrets and usually have their weapons mou~ted
According to a statement issued fr~m the Junkers on free-swivel mounts with no more than one 1Ight
works late in June, 1939: "It is no longer a secret that weapon at any particular station. The only ob\'i~us
Germany had taken up the construction of military air- reason for this is that under the so-called blitzkneg
craft quite some time before she recovered her liberty tactics the bombers have the way cleared for them. SO
of armament, and in this connection we should men- there is little opposition, or are accompanied by such a
tion the activities of Junkers Flllgzeug-ulld-Mowren- large number of fighter types that interception is un-
werke (Junkers airplane and motor works) which had likely. This point of view, of course, proved erroneous
never neglected the development of such craft (dive where Britain was concerned. For while the skies had
19.f2 WAR PLANES OF THE AXIS 11
generally been cleared by fighters when the Germans because flying boats and seaplanes as a rule are slower
were attacking other countries, and the escort had and less maneuverable than enemy types they would
always been sufficient if the opposing force was not meet.
knocked out entirely, the British flyers always roared in Even though the Germans probably realize as well as
regardlessof "clearing" attacks or defending forces and anyone else the value of large flying boats for wartime
made the bombers pay a heavy price. Present indica- purposes, they have developed the floatplane to a greater
tions show that the Germans are trying to alter this extent. This can be attributed not only to the relatively
situation by adding more guns to their bombers and by small coast line of that country in its pre-war state, but
using light fighter bombers for bombardier duties. also to the mass-production system under which the
Bombardment is the long arm of the Nazi Luftwaffe. Luftl.llaffe was built up in such a few years. FIoatplanes
Its main purpose is to go ahead of infantry Panzerdivi- can be better adapted to mass production not only be-
sionsof the Wehrmacht and strike at centers of enemy cause of their complete lack of hull, but also because
resistance or possible resistance. Too, its addition;l there is no necessity to provide watertight surfaces,
purpose is to demoralize civilians by bombing towns which naturally require more labor and time to be de-
and cities and to send refugees scurrying to civilian cen- signed for seagoing duties-are structurally similar to
tersfarther behind the lines. The main idea back of this landplanes and can have their undercarriage inter-
tactic, of course, is to clog roads with fleeing and de- changeable for wheels instead of floats in case of neces-
moralizedrefugees so that it will be impossible or at least sity.
difficultfor the enemy to move up supplies and troops. The most successful use of seagoing planes so far in
The easiest and most conclusive way to describe Ger- this war was in operations against Holland during the
manbombardment machines and their purpose is to call drive to the west. Even before the fast-moving Wehr-
them flying field guns, or artillery. For they are used macht had reached South Holland, air-borne troops,
for the most part against centers which are too far re- carried by large seaplanes, were landed off The Hague
moved from front lines to be within range of artillery and Rotterdam to attack military establishments in
fire. those cities and to make it more difficult to send all
FLYING BOATS AND SEAPLANES available troops to the east to face the main German
The German naval air arm is not developed to the forces. Also, during the early hours of Friday, May 10,
extent of those of America and Great Britain, yet Ger- as an introductory phase of their attack, the Germans
many does require marine aircraft for coastal defense began to lay magnetic mines in the mouths of large
duties, overwater reconnaissance, mine laying, catapult rivers and harbor entrances in the Netherlands.
operations,and for attack on Allied shipping. Some of (Part IIwill appear in the Novemher-Decemher issue.
these duties are now being carried out by landplanes, It will descrihe Italian and Japanese planes.)
,
•• "
By Lieutenant G. H. Dresser, Coast Artillery Corps
Correoidor's
00,
bio guns still roar defiantly. Not in the Prior Service -4 months, Selective Service
ears of the treacherous Japanese perhaps, but in the Education -College graduate, Engineering
hearts of Coast Artillerymen in Iceland, Panama, Age -26
Hawaii, New Caledonia, and-yes, in the Philippines, Typical officer candidate number 3:
too. To no other officers and men do the blasts of the Name -HARRY DRUMMOND
Rock's giant cannon carry more meaning than to those Rank -Corporal
who manned them, now prisoners of war. Prior Service -1 vear, National Guard
"Give us fighters the likes of those who fought here; Education -C~llege graduate, Journalism
oive us leaders the likes of those who led here; and
o Age -22
America will have victories greater than the world has
ever seen." That's the message the guns of Corregidor Besides wearing khaki or olive drab, what do Pazorek,
roar to the American people today. Morgan, and Drummond have in common that we
And in reply, the Coast Artillery proudly points to should name them as typical officer candidates? It is
its hourl)' increasinoI:> numbers, its hourly' more effective certainly not education nor background nor personal
nring batteries, and says grimly, "There are your fight- ambition. No, but more important, they do have the
ers, Corregidor." abilitv to lead other men in battle with firmness, fair-
But the leaders-where are they? ness, 'courage, and wisdom.
The Antiaircraft Officer Candidate School at Camp How do we know they have such ability? Frankly,
Davis, North Carolina, was described in a previous issue we are really not sure yet. But before they were chosen
of the JOURNAL.It is one of a number of officer candi- as possible officer candidates, their own battery and bat-
date schools in the United States; it is one of the most talion officers studied them very closely, and it was upon
effective answers to that question, "\\There are the those officers' judgment that Pazorek, iv10rgan, and
leaders?" In the officer candidate schools, the Army Drummond were sent before high ranking boards for
of the United States is successfully handling the Her- nnal decisions. After the most careful consideration,
culean task of turning out young, enthusiastic, and these three, along with more than a hundred others,
competent officers for every branch of the service. were selected. \\Till they become creditable officers?
And in the Coast Artillerv's oldest and most historic From the North, South, East, and \;Vest, the candi-
fort, Fort Monroe, Virginia, 'the soldiers of the youngest dates pour into Fort Monroe-privates, corporals, ser-
officer candidate school of them all snapped to attention geants; Regular Army, National Guard, Selectees; en-
on a balmy spring morning in April, 1942. No more gineers, writers, bank clerks; Pazorek, 1\'lorgan, Drum-
appropriate place could have been chosen, because it mond-all of them with one common trait-the some-
has been at Monroe's Coast Artillery School that thou- thing that makes each candidate a reply to "Give us
sands of good seacoast artillerymen have mastered the leaders the likes of those who led here."
ABC's of trajectories and ballistics. Now historic old
And suddenly like the bursts of a salvo, they are no
Fort Monroe is giving to the nation not only the artil-
longer men of different Army backgrounds, for shortly
lerymen, but also the present and future seacoast leaders.
after the registration process is completed, they must
Suppose we choose three nctitious soldiers at random
remove their chevrons and regimental insignia. Ser-
and follow them through the Coast Artillery Officer
geant Pazorek, Private Morgan, and Corporal Drum-
Candidate School (CAOCS)-from enlisted men to
mond are now "Misters" to the officers in charge. Upon
seacoast second lieutenants. The pace will be stiff. But
reporting, they will state very smartly, "Sir, ~andidat~
come along and see us make leaders for America's armies.
Pazorek, Morgan, and Drummond reportmg as dI-
Typical officer candidate number 1: rected."
Name -STANLEY PAZOREK Barracks are assigned, bunks are chosen by the men.
Rank -Tech Sergeant One officer is in charge of each platoon, consisting of
Prior Service -12 years, Regular Army approximately nfty men. A CAOCS battery is ma~e
Education -High school graduate up of two platoons. On the very nrst day, the officers JD
Age -31 charge lay down the Officer Candidate's Ten Com-
Typical officer candidate number 2: mands:
Name -ARNOLD MORGAN 1. You will be a self-disciplined soldier.
Rank -Private 2. You will maintain a meticulous appearance.
1942 "GIVE US LEADERS-" 13

Learning fire adjustment. Photo by Sergeant Trimble.

3. You will perform your duties with exactness and Saturday afternoons belong to the men-just enough
with spirit. time for PX purchases, extra cramming, and possibly a
4. You will march at a strict attention in every for- week-end siesta. Saturday mornings are highlighted by
mation. a "Rooster Reveille" at 5: 30 A.l\I. in order that the can-
5. You will wear the uniform prescribed. didates may be subjected to one of the most exacting
6. You will cooperate with fellow candidates to the inspections Army personnel have ever endured. This
fullest extent. eye-opener is held at 7: 30 A.M. so that the men are able
7. You will care for your equipment to the best of to reach their classes by 9 A.M. Under a recently-revised
your ability. schedule, final academic examinations are given on
8. You will walk with excellent posture at all times. Friday afternoons, and the Saturday morning 9-12 pe-
9. You will strive to be superior, notiust satisfactory. riod is devoted to small-arms instruction and further in-
10. You will hold as your goal, PERFECTION! fantry drill.
Phew! A rough road lies before candidates Pazorek, In addition, candidate officers are appointed weekly.
I Morgan, and Drummond. Strenuous physical activities In the first week, for example, all three of our friends
a.swell as brain-twisting classes are ahead. For military have been selected for various duties. 1\!Ir. Pazorek has
life, a sound mind must have a sound body beneath it. been named Battery Commander; 1\1r. Morgan, Sec-
During the first two weeks, an hour each day is devoted tion Leader (he is responsible for cleanliness and order-
to infantry drill. During the remaining weeks, candi- liness of one Boor of a two-storv barracks); and 1\1r.
dates will tackle the Butts' Ivlanual, bayonet training, Drummond, Platoon Leader. D~ring the twelve-week
calisthenics, extended-order drill, and the obstacle course, all candidates will serve in two or more positions
COurseas well as additional close-order drill. of authoritv.
Classes are regularly scheduled from 8 A.1\1. to 5 P.1\!., Batten' Commander Pazorek will shout commands
tudy sessions each evening from 6: 30 P .1\1. to 8: 30 P .1\1. many ti~es during his week at this particular job, be-
THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October
1
cause candidates march to all classes and activities in A test follows the completion of lecture material On
formation. each subject. The test marks are weighed according to
And now, classes have begun. the number of hours devoted to the course, and then are
"1\lr. Drummond, what does an officer do when he combined to make up the scholastic mark-50% of the
arrives at his new post?" total final average.
"Can you identify the warship whose silhouette is .t\ lessrs. Pazorek, 1\lorgan, Drummond, and the ma-
shown here, i\lr. 1\lorgan?" ioritv of their classmates. have little difficultv with the
"\Vhich is the deadliest of the poison gases, 1\lr. -first"and second weeks' general courses. Th~y ha\-e lis-
Pazorek?" tened to the lectures intendv and have studied con-
The first week introduces a general group of military scientiously. The "buddy sy;tem" of answering work-
subjects including Administration, 1\less 1\Ianagement, sheets has helped them considerably. \Vorksheets are
Court 1\Iartial Procedure, Antimechanized Defense, and really cooperative tests, because the student is allowed
1\lilitary Discipline. Candidates are subjected to some to search for the answers in his notes or in his textbooks.
600 hours of instruction and supervised study. Several Still more important, he is permitted and encouraged to
of the courses, with the number of hours devoted to discuss the questions with other candidates. Via th
them, are listed below: buddy system, those men who need help can be aided
Seacoast Artillery (l\'lateriel, Pointing, etc.) 233 hours by those men who can help. The latest and best train-
Tactics . 43 hours ing films are another source of knowledge for the candi
Orientation . 38 hours dates.
Review of 1\lathematics " . 28 hours Mathematics is the one course which could aptly be
Administration . 24 hours termed "student-destroyer." \\Thy? \\Tell, along with
Seacoast Searchlights . 12 hours 20% of his class, 1\ Ir. Pazorek failed at least one of the

Are they officer material? Photo by Seru .. nt Bolli


19-/2 "GIVE US LEADERS-" 15
At the end of each week, the officers in command of
the various platoons gather up their detailed notes on
e,'ery man in their units, and then submit an efficiencv
repo'rt on each candidate to the Commanding Office;.
The following example is the report filed on 1\1r. l\ 10r-
gan after his first week:

INDIVIDUAL EFFICIENCY REPORT


NAl\lE-Morgan, Arnold
vVEEK-lst.
Plwsical Activitv and Endurance Verv Satisfactory
Military Bearing ~ Satisfactory
Neatness Very Satisfactory
Attention to Duty Excellent
Cooperation Excellent
Force Satisfactory
Judgment and Common Sense. Very Satisfactory
Leadership Very Satisfactory
REMARKS-Mr. j\llorgan proved a very efficient
Section Leader. Posture is his weakest point. He
seems to lack force in manner of speaking, but he
did his job well.

Mr. Morgan's bearing will have to improve. The


Faculty Board is sure that eleven more weeks of march-
just pan of a day's work for an officer candidate. ing will provide the corrective measures. Besides that,
Photo by Sergpunf Belie.
his four months of Army service is viewed compara-
three math examinations given. 1'\l1r.1\t10rgan, with an tively with Mr. Pazorek's twelve years of service. It is
ngineering background, received excellent math grades. naturally expected that the latter will have far superior
bearing. (\Vhich he does.)
He didn't know his marks, for they are never pub-
ishcd.) 1\'1r. Drummond passed also. Although his The efficiency report is based on two main factors:
math background had not been extensive, he had really 1. Personal observation of the candidate while in
boned hard on right triangles and logarithms before every phase of his daily activities. (Marching, at
pplying for the school. mess, during classes, etc.)
As Mr. Pazorek sadly learned, if a man fails a course, 2. The "gig sheet"-a daily reminder of personal bar-
he is invited to a private discussion with the Command- racks sins. For example, on April 29, all three of
ing Officer of the CAOCS, Lieutenant Colonel \Villiam our chums were gigged as follows.
L. ~lcNamee. On one subject is the colonel especially Mr. Pazorek-Shoes under bed not polished.
rm: "A basic knowledge of trigonometry and loga-
Mr. Drummond-Top of wall locker dusty.
rithms is the primary equipment of an efficient coast
Mr. r\'lorgan-Barracks Aoor in upper squad-
rtilleryman. By far, the majority of candidates who
room not swept clean. (As Section Leader,
nil to win commissions here are men who are not pre-
Morgan was responsible for police of his part
pared to tackle mathematics. There is no reason for so
of the barracks.)
any candidates to fail mathematics. If a soldier is not
rtunate enough to have had courses in math, let him The "gig sheet" is a source of eternal irritation for
btain texts and begin to study before he applies for those lawbreakers whose names appear on it. Gigs are
school, or at least, before he reaches the school. Our evaluated according to their seriousness with one, two or
view in mathematics is just what the name implies- three demerits. The candidate who receives twice the
iew!" number of the platoon's average demerits is restricted
Naturally, Mr. Pazorek feels a bit downhearted, but on Saturday afternoon. Commendations carry weight in
s failure is a tangible warning that he must bear down the opposite direction, offsetting gigs. \Vhat fierce joy
order to pass other subjects which require a basic when one can say, "I haven't been gigged all week."
nderstanding of trigonometry and logarithms-for ex- But why is such serious attention given to these seem-
pIe, Orientation. ingly unimportant details? Because, by trying to win
But the powers-that-be specify that academic work commendations and eliminate gigs, a candidate learns
II count only 50%. \Vhere does the other 50% enter the meaning of personal responsibility. He learns to be
e picture? Leadership! alert and exact, to be on his guard constantly. And he
16 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-0ctober
must possess those qualities to be one of "the likes who instruction, seacoast firing is conducted by the pro~
led here." tive officers. They operate the instruments in the plot-
Hours melt into days, and days melt into weeks. ting room, orient the guns, adjust fire, and, under dose
Men are being molded into hardened, well-disciplined, supervision, conduct a target practice.
superior soldiers. Attitudes are changing. Responsi- In twelve weeks, the candidates progress with amaz-
bilities were first accepted and are now anticipated. ing speed-they seem to grow in stature. Their minds
Subject material is growing increasingly more compli- are keen with fresh knowledge and new ideas. The days
cated. at Wilson Park, the firing point, are crowded with ex-
'What are the functions of the recuperator system, citement, for within a very few weeks after the firing, it
Mr. Drummond? Describe one method of orienting the is gold braid, gold bars, and Lieutenant in front of
Cloke plotting board, Mr. Pazorek. Explain the rule, each name.
'Right, raise; Left, lower,' Mr. Morgan." Every candidate takes an active part in the firing,
Physical activities continue unabated. and one can see the confidence with which each future
"By the left Rank ... MARCH," commands Mr. officer shoulders his responsibilities. It is true that they
Drummond. "In cadence ... EXERCISE," com- are in the comparative quiet of Wilson Park today, but
mands Mr. Morgan. tomorrow they may well be on another Corregidor. In
On a Saturday afternoon, Morgan helps pazorek to the eyes of officers who were in charge of the candidates
master his logarithms and trigonometry. Drummond through the long weeks, there is a sparkle of pride, for
has a tough time with Orientation, but he manages to they observed and aided the transformation.
pull through. Morgan's bearing has definitely improved. There is sureness in each candidate's voice as he gives
The class loses four or five men along about the fifth his first command on the firing line at Wilson Park.
week. Most of the losses are due to scholastic deficien- "Fire one ranging salvo.... Commence Firing!"
cies. No candidate is ever dismissed by the Faculty Brigadier General Lawrence B. Weeks, Commandant
Board of the CAOCS without the most thorough re- of the Coast Artillery School, personally congratulates
view of his individual case. each graduate officer of the Army's newest service
Candidates are walking straighter, thinking more school; he hands to each one of them a certificate of
clearly, throwing their chests out a little further. graduation and the document granting them commis-
"Certainly, Mr. Drummond, your officer's uniform sions as temporary Second Lieutenants in the Army of
will be altered in time for graduation. And how many the United States.
sets of gold bars?" As the men of each class examine the contents of their
Nerves are beginning to tingle. orders and read their new assignments, it is not difficult
"Did I pass that writ on gun pointing?" "Two gigs to understand why young America is confident of vic-
to-day; how did that happen?" tory. For, in the eyes of these new officers is a certain
New groups of students who have already begun the grim reminder to the enemy that America not only per-
course stare with healthy respect and admiration at the forms wonders quickly, but effectively.
veteran OCS marching units. In twelve weeks, men of varied ambitions, educations,
On July 10, 1942, the first Seacoast class was gradu- backgrounds, and abilities are transformed into self-
ated. Let us assume it included our three fictitious thinking capable Army officers, ready to take up where
friends. Battalion and regimental commanders in all the men of Corregidor left off-ready to prove that the
parts of the world look forward to having OCS gradu- soldiers who died on Bataan did not die in vain.
ates, trusting in the ability of the school to turn out of- If ever a prayer is being answered, it is the one .which
ficers who are ready, willing, "and able. That is the the big guns on the "Rock" cried out-"Give us leaders
trademark of OCS men-ability. the likes of those who led here."
Their training is not out-dated. They have been Pazorek, Morgan, Drummond, Smith, Jones ...
taught the newest methods. They have seen and perhaps even another MacArthur ... whatever the
operated some of the most modern weapons and instru- name, sir, the graduates of the Coast Artillery Officer
ments. They have absorbed a tremendous amount of Candidate School are not stopping as seacoast second
artillery knowledge. At the end of classroom artillery looeys-Corregidor, they are just beginningl
Training the Automatic
Weapons Fire Unit
By Major Herbert F. Mitchell, Coast Artillery Corps
I cedure for the fire unit to meet all anticipated service
Probably the hardest-hitting artillery unit in the conditions.
Army, for its size, the AW fire unit can successfully It should be emphasized that the purpose of military
engage targets from the dive bomber to the tank, from training is not merely to expose the soldier to the vari-
the torpedo "mosquito" boat to the slow-moving truck, ous military subjects he should master, but to develop
or even assist field artillery against fixed targets. It is in him the skill required to make his unit's fire effective
highly mobile, and can operate independently for days and teach him how to meet the enemy under all battle
at a time. conditions and corne out on top. He should be con-
To provide the crew that can utilize these tremend- vinced that shooting it out with the enemy is better and
ous capabilities is a selection and training project re- safer than seeking helpless shelter. He must be thor-
quiring the most careful planning and execution. Not oughly imbued with the idea that his skill may not only
only must these men be expert in the technical use of preserve his own life and those of his companions, but
their weapons and fire-control equipment, but they also may save the lives of many times that number of
mustknow most of the tricks of the trade of the infantry his comrades and allies, may perhaps decide the issue
soldier,have a fair knowledge of field engineering, be at his particular corner of the war.
adept in anti-mechanized and antitorpedo-boat defense,
II
and be able to recognize on sight some fifty or more
types of planes, tanks, or torpedo boats. Since they Selection of personnel is often the key to the success-
work with the Air Corps, the Armored Forces, the ful training program. It need not be repeated that a
Cavalry, and the Infantry, as well as in AA defense man can not be trained beyond his capabilities. Inter-
commands,they must know something of the tactics and est and physical attributes also play an important part
technique of these arms. in a man's training. The capabilities and missions of the
Let us consider a training plan designed to take the AW fire unit require men of quick reactions, rapid and
fifteensoldiers who have completed their twelve weeks accurate thinking, and well developed initiative and
of basic training and weld them into the AW fire unit sense of responsibility. There is no place for the slow-
whichis ready to take on any battle mission that may be thinking, plodding type of man, nor for the indolent,
assignedto it. careless individual. One such man may render the
whole fire unit impotent, as would such a man on a
The hours given are to be taken as a guide only, as
varsity football team. The general physical requirements
the sole criterion of the training of the unit must be its
are: good eyesight, normal color perception, fairly ro-
ability to deliver the goods..
bust physique, and quick and certain muscular control.
The plan is divided into three phases: preparatory The principal characteristics and capabilities required
training phase, target practice training phase, and tac- in the several positions of the fire unit are enumerated
tical training phase. The latter two phases may be re- below:
versedor intermingled, if desired, without serious detri- Chief of Section-The Chief of Section must possess
ment to the training.
all the qualities normally required of a noncommis-
The preparatory training phase includes all artillery sioned officer. In addition, he must be highly trained in
training prior to target practice and the specialized recognition of aircraft, tanks, torpedo boats, and other
training in the non-artillery subjects. The target prac- possible targets. He must possess clear judgment, as
tice training phase includes antiaircraft and horizontal he is sole judge of whether and on what target to fire.
firetarget practice. The tactical training phase combines He must have a high degree of initiative as he must
0 e non-artillery subjects and unites them with the ar- often change position without command, and may be
tillerysubjects to present to the soldier the relation of required to operate independently during fast-moving
the many details to the actual field operations his unit operations. He must know thoroughly his equipment
maybe called upon to execute. During this latter phase, and the duties of his men, as he is responsible for the
also,should be developed the Standard Operating Pro- care of the former and the state of training of the men
18 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October

crosshairs steadily on the target. It is not sufficient that


the crosshair be kept anywhere on the target. It must be
maintained steadily on a particular point on the taroet.
The trackers must be able to "track off," where ne~es-
sarx, to produce line shots. Since the telescope height is
adjustable only by digging the director in, the trackers
should be of equal height and preferably not less than
five feet six inches tall. Each tracker should be capable
of assuming the duties of the other or of the range
setter, and should be trained as gun pointers.
Power Plant Operator-The power plant operator
must be a qualified truck driver. In addition he must
understand the operation, care, and maintenance of his
power plant. He must be reliable and resourceful, as he
is usuaJly located two hundred feet or more from the
gun position and the other crew members. He should
be capable of acting as a lookout, and should be trained
as an alternate tracker, and as a machine gunner.
T eleplzol1e Operator-In addition to his duties as a
telephone operator, he should be trained as an alternate
tracker. He should also be qualified as a lookout and as
a machine gunner. He should be steady and reliable, as
the principal source of an alert is from his telephone.
GUl1l1er- The gunner should be a mechanically
minded man, as he is responsible for the operation, care
and maintenance of the gun and the local defense ma-
chine gun. He is likewise charged with the supervision
of the ammunition, including its loading and inspec-
tion. Upon him rests the responsibility for the safety of
the crew members and equipment in the dead area. He
is in full charge of the gun during Sight-control opera-
.. tracking drill should be emphasized."
tion. Consequently, he must thoroughly understand the
in the latter. He must have a good power of command, application of leads to the sights and the adjustment of
as he is usually the senior man present at the gun po- fire during action. He should be capable of assuming
sition. I-lis duties in action correspond to those of a gun the duties of the chief of section.
batten' commander. Loader and Firer-This man has a purely mechanical
Rm;ge Setter-The range setter is the key man of the job in action, but one that requires precision and at-
fire unit during the engaging of a target. He is in com- tention to the job. He must be trained to keep his eyes
plete control of the firing and of the adjustment of fire. on the ammunition and not on the target. He should be
Hence, he must be cool and stable bv nature, so that he the principal assistant of the gunner in caring for the
will keep his head when under fire. 'He must be highly gun and its equipment, and be capable of assuming the
trained in estimating target ranges, and therefore must gunner's duties.
be thoroughly familiar with the size and appearance of Gun Pointers-The gun pointers have a dual job
enemy aircraft, tanks, or other targets. Since a plane has requiring different abilities. As gun pointers they must
no background to aid in estimating its distance, the be able to track the gun smoothly and accurately. They
range setter must depend almost entirely on its apparent must understand the application of leads to their sights.
size as it appears to him. The range setter must under- and be able to adjust fire by the observation of tracer.
stand his fire-control equipment thoroughly and be able As lookouts they must be highly trained in aircraft and
to keep it in operative condition, if within his power tank recognition. They must be reliable and steady- I

to do so. He must thoroughly understand the fire-con- men who can be depended upon to stay on the job for
trol problem as well as the variation of slant range for all long periods of inactivity. They should be trained as
types of target courses. In addition he is in command loader and firer, as gunner andjor director trackers.
of the range section and is responsible for its state of Ammunition Relayers- These men are directly
training. He should be capable of assuming the duties charged with the loading and inspection of the ammu'
of the chief of section. nition. They must be reliable and thorough in that I
Director Trackers-The director trackers must possess duty. They must be adept in moving about the gun
carriage to supply ammunition from any direction and
J
a highly refined "touch" in operating their tracking
handwheels. They must be able to keep their respective without pause. It is their responsibility that the am'
19-12 TMINING THE AUTOMATIC WEAPONS FIRE UNIT 19

munition in the feed mechanism is alwavs sufficient. In 1. Materiel instruction should cover thoroughly the
addition, one of the relayers is the pri~e mover chauf- piece of equipment with which the individual soldier
feur, and must be qualified in that duty. The ammuni- is concerned. He should know the proper name of
tion relays should be trained as gun pointers, loader and every part, the functioning of that part, and the func-
firer, and/or machine gunners. tioning of the mechanism by assemblies and as a whole.
Machine-gunners- The machine-gunners are charged In addition, each soldier should know the major parts
with the local protection of the fire unit. They must of the rest of the fire unit's equipment and the func-
not watch the target engaged by the automatic cannon, tioning of such major parts. Opportunities for drill and
but be alert for any target, aerial or ground, which pre- tests of the individual's knowledge, such as during
sents a threat to the fire unit. In addition to being quali-cleaning, should be utilized to the full. Models showing
fied as machine-gunners, they should be trained as di- the functioning of the more complicated parts should
rector trackers andjor gun pointers. be made and used. Large charts showing the details of
It may be seen from the above that it is not sufficient the major assemblies are quite helpful. Training films
that each man be qualified for one position in the fire and film strips are invaluable aids in this training. A
unit. The isolated nature of the gun position makes it thorough understanding of the materiel goes a long
imperative that each key man have one or more under- way to insure its performance in battle ..
studies, ready at any time to replace a casualty, or to be 2. The drill should be carefully taught, dividing the
alert while the principal rests. The well-trained fire unit instruction into four stages. The first stage should em-
can operate the gun with sight control with any four phasize what each man does at the several commands.
men, and has at least two trained substitutes for each The second stage should emphasize the manner of do-
other key position .. ing each part of the drill. Here, time can be very profit-
ably spent showing each man the manner of execution
III which will ultimately work out as the fastest and surest
PREPARATORY TMINING PHASE way of accomplishing the task. Eliminate lost motion
and extra steps. The third stage should emphasize ac-
Artillery Subjects
curacy. Practice until the movement or operation can be
Hours of Instruction
performed exactly as it should be, time after time
1. Materiel 36
without error. The final stage should develop speed.
2. Drill , 48
Only after the first three stages have been thoroughly
3. Tracking and specialist training , 48
mastered should any attempt to gain speed be per-
4. Care and Maintenance , 12
mitted. Of course, as the operation becomes more fa-
5. Theory 48
miliar, the man will unconsciously gain speed. But care
Non-Artillery Subjects must be exercised that steadiness and accuracy are not
sacrificed in an attempt to gain speed. If the proper
6. Identification of aircraft 36
groundwork has been laid in the first three stages, the
7. Identification of tanks and other targets , 12
development of speed will be rapid and satisfying. Com-
8. Map and aerial photograph reading 12
petition should be encouraged and the breaking of a
9. Reconnaissance and selection of position 24
record time made the occasion for commendation.
10. Field fortifications , 24
Speed should become habitual. Whenever the equip-
11. Anti-gas measures , 16
ment is set up or taken down or used in any way, the
12. Camouflage and concealment 16
crew should do the job at the double as quickly as
13. Local security measures 12
possible. It is essential in the quest for speed that care
14. Field sanitation and first aid 16
be exercised in the leveling and orienting operations.
15. Convoy operation 12
No standard except the highest attainable should be
16. Small arms target practice 48
accepted for the accuracy of these operations. Any at-
17. Marches : 24
tempt to sacrifice accuracy to gain speed should be dealt
18. Communications 12
with severely. Accurate fire delivered a second or two
19. Alert and warning systems 12
later is far better than poorly-aimed fire delivered al-
20. Standard Operating Procedure 12
most immediately. A hit in a few shots is much more
21. Field exercises , 48
effective than a hit with a lot of shots. When the crew
22. Tests and inspections 24
has become proficient in their principal assignments,
23. Infantry drill 24
substitute position training should be initiated. The
24. Infantry tactics, small unit 48
hours listed- for this training subject are intended only
25. Horizontal fire 24
for instruction in drill. The drill, of course, will be
26. Defense against air-borne attack 24
used in conjunction with all operations and training
27. Garrison duties 48
involving the use of the equipment.
28. Sickness and furlough 48
3. Tracking and specialist training is the most im-
TOTAL-768 hours of instruction-16 48-hour .weeks. portant part of the preliminary artillery training. No
20 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL Sepwmber-October
effort should be spared to provide every type of train- gun or fire-control device that fails to function in battle
ing aid possible. Tracking practice should be afforded may cost the lives of some or all of the crew as well as
to the director trackers, the gun pointers, and the ma- cause the failure of the fire unit's mission. Ninety-nine
chine gunners. Men designated as substitutes for these per-cent of equipment failures can be traced to improper
positions must be given the practice to qualify them as or careless maintenance. Such improper or careless
such. The chief of section, range setter, and gunner maintenance cannot be tolerated in the successful fire
should keep themselves in practice so that they may unit.
take over one tracker's job in order to check on the 5. The amount of theory to be presented will vary
other tracker. The tracking should begin with easy with the intelligence and background of the men. As
targets and work up to the more difficult courses, in- complete a background of theory should be presented
cluding at the end of the period such targets as high as is consistent with those factors. All men should have
speed hedgehoppers, dive bombers, and the T-1 target. a general idea of the AW problem and how the director
The standard of director tracking must be the ability to solves it. The director crew should understand the basic
keep the crosshair steadily on the designated point on principles of fire control as used by the director. The
the target. It is not sufficient to keep the crosshair gun pointers and machine gunners should likewise
merely on the target in general. Any motion between understand the basic principles of the fire control prob-
target and crosshair introduces errors into the firing lem as applied to their types of fire control. Physical
'data and prevents effective fire. Likewise gun and ma- conditions should be emphasized with the average man
chine gun tracking must be steady before effective tracer rather than mathematical equations.
adjustment can be made. Since trackers rapidly be- 6. Identification of aircraft is a subject that must be
come stale, tracking practice should be arranged for not fully stressed. Its importance can be appreciated when
less than weekly throughout the entire training course it is realized that someone in the fire unit, under battle
and into service assignments if at all possible. Full use conditions, must recognize an approaching plane within
should be made of accidental targets whenever the six seconds after it is first sighted, or one of two events,
equipment is set up, even at the expense of the training both quite undesirable, may take place. If the plane is
at hand. Only thus can the degree of expertness re- friendly, it may, if unrecognized, be shot down. If the
quired for effective operation of the equipment be ob- plane is hostile, it may not be engaged at all. Recogni-
tained and maintained. Visits to neighboring air fields, tion is a better term than identification, as it implies a
identification and pick up and tracking drill should be nearly instantaneous mental reaction to the sighting of
emphasized. the target. There is not time to catalog the principal
Specialist training other than tracking should like- features of the plane and attempt to identify it from a
wise be given careful attention. Many hours should be study of such features. It must be definitely recognized
spent by the range setter and his understudies in esti- as hostile or friendly and preferably as to its type and
mating ranges. An indoor range with scale model planes model. Distinctive features are often not apparent at
is invaluable for this, as an immediate check on the esti- the presented angle of aspect, or may be made inten-
mate is always available. This should be combined with tionally misleading by the enemy. Drill with accurate
practice on actual targets and should be checked as often silhouettes of the front, side, and bottom views of
as possible with the best means available. Where targets planes has proved most effective. This drill should be
fly at a known altitude, a range scale can be pasted right supplemented by a study of all available statistics con-
beside the angular height scale of the elevation tele- cerning the plane. Model making, and particularly
scope of the director. A range adjustment trainer, such model painting, are great aids in becoming "acquainted"
as that described in paragraph 229, FM 4-113, January with the particular plane. Principal friendly and.hostile
20, 1942, should be constructed or procured. Training types should be recognized instantly, and all types
the gun pointers and machine gunners in the applica- likely to be encountered should be studied. Although
tion of leads should be given its share of attention. the chief of section is charged with the decision as to
Much valuable training can be obtained by the use of whether an approaching plane is hostile or friendly, all
simple training devices such as check sights and pre- men who might be employed as lookouts should be
pared charts and curves. The use of a tracer wand, such trained in aircraft recognition.
as described in paragraph 228, in the above manual, 7. What was said concerning aircraft recognition is
lends itself to many training applications. Duplication generally applied to recognition of other targets, such
of firing conditions, to include sound effects, is very de- as tanks and torpedo boats. The time factor for these
sirable. Service speeds and courses should be empha- targets is not so pressing, however, so that instantane-
sized over target practice speeds and courses. ous recognition, although desirable, is not mandatory.
4. Care and maintenance instruction and practice 8. Study of maps and aerial photographs should be
should begin the first day the equipment is used, and made progressively during the training program. All
should become an integral part of each day's training. NCO's and chauffeurs should be able to follow routes
Frequent inspections at unannounced intervals should and recognize principal terrain features as shown on
be made to insure that proper care is being taken. The maps and aerial photographs. Use of standard maps
19'}2 TRAINING THE AUTOJ\lATIC \VEAPONS FIRE UNIT 21

.... all men should be trained in aircraft recognition."


......,
22 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October
cipline before, during, and after construction and oc-
cupation should be rigidly enforced.
13. Local Security measures include obstacles such
as barbed wire, land mines, tank traps, and other ground
works designed to impede the progress of a land enemy.
A\V units assigned to the defense of air fields will fi~d
these measures essential to help prevent the seizure of
the field by enemy air-borne troops as well as by enemy
mechanized forces. Also included are measures taken to
alert the fire unit in the event of imminent attack from
the air or land.
14. Field sanitation and first aid measures are partic-
ularly important for the isolated fire unit. The chief of
section must enforce all sanitary regulations and see
that his men take care of their health. First aid is un-
usually important, due to the scattered nature of the
battery's disposition. Medical Department men will
rarely be available at the gun position, and first aid to
the wounded must be rendered by his comrades.
15. Convoy operations as studied by the entire crew
should emphasize defensive measures against aerial or
ground attack while in convoy. The local defense ma-
chine gun should always be manned while on the
march. Drivers should be trained to drive over little
"Actual positions should be constructed."
used roads, trails, or open country, rather than to follow
main roads, as the latter are certain to be heavily at-
should be supplemented by use of sketches, overlays, tacked. The fire unit should be able to handle its o\\'n
and road maps, as standard maps are not always avail- engineering problems in crossing streams, ditches, and
able in a theater of operations. steep grades.
9. The principles and techniques of reconnaissance 16. Small arms target practice should cover all the
and selection of positions should be thoroughly cov- small arms used in the fire unit, including the bayonet.
ered in the classroom. Practical training in the field Every man should be qualified at least as a marksman
should follow, gradually combining the other related with the rifle. Each man must be made to feel that his
subjects until al\ considerations can be weighed and rifle is as important to him as his gas mask or canteen.
balanced, and sound decisions reached by the NCO's He cannot realize the value to him of a weapon he can-
of the fire unit as to the choice of positions. not use effectively. Yearly rifle practice cannot be ex-
10. The study of field fortifications should empha- pected to keep a man at his best in shooting. Like any
size Ca) Use of materials at hand; Cb) Careful prepa- skill, constant practice is needed to keep in fonn.
rations prior to and during occupation of the position; Monthly qualification runs should be the minimum
Cc) Design of the fortification for protection, rather rifle practice permitted.
than comfort; Cd) Suiting the fortification to the mis- 17. Marches are excellent means for conditioning
sion and probable time of occupancy. Actual positions men. Modern battle conditions demand practically un-
should be constructed, and improvements made from limited endurance. The man whose strength gives out
time to time during the program. Aerial photographs in battle may never have another chance to fight.
before, during, and after construction and occupancy Marches also ~ffer opportunity for testing discipline and
are valuable aids in showing what the enemy may be the ability of the lower commanders to take proper ac-
expected to know concerning the position. tion under attack. Simulated attacks of various kinds
11. Antigas measures include drill in use of mask, should be arranged to bring home to the men the fact
training with mask, gas-proof shelter construction, gas that the enemy will constantly oppose him in all opera-
alarms, identification of gases, and decontamination. tions, particularly movements. The soldier must be
The field fortifications already constructed can be trained to the point where he instinctively expects
adapted to include a gas proof sl;elter and decontamina- enemy opposition and is always alert to meet it. He
tion facilities. Drill in gas alerts and use of smoke and must develop the jungle creature's instinct of self pres-
tear gas should be practiced. ervation, as modern war is most certainly a case of sur-
12. Camouflage and concealment should likewise be vival of the fittest, in every sense.
linked with the field fortification work. The principle 19. Alert and warning systems are the means ~y
that fortification can be obtained only at the expense which the fire unit is given that warning which .\\']11
of concealment should be emphasized. Camouflage dis- enable it to be ready for the enemy when he stnkes.
19-t2 TRAINI~G THE AUTOMATIC WEAPONS FIRE UNIT 23

The low Hying plane depends on surprise and speed cline if not maintained by other means. One of the ear-
for its security. These factors can be neutralized or marks of a trained soldier is his ability to exhibit snap
eliminated by efficient alert systems. Distinctive signals and precision in infantry drill. The general public often
must be provided for the various alarms: air attack, judges the efficiency of a military unit by its appearance
mechanized attack, gas, fire, and others if used. The in a parade ..
men must be trained to react instinctively and quickly 24. Small unit infantry tactics should be taught,
to the particular alarms. Well-planned measures for both the offensive and the defensive, as occasions may
the particular defense must be thoroughly understood be expected in battle when the fire unit crew will
bv the men or they are worthless. have to meet and overcome small groups of enemy in-
'20. A Standard Operating Procedure should be de- fantry, paratroops, or grounded armored force person-
velopedfor the fire unit during the training in the sub- nel. The crew might have to fight to gain a desired po-
jects previously enumerated (9 to 19). Such an SOP sition and then fight again to hold it. Guarded road
should cover all routine operations and serve as a check blocks may have to be passed, and the enemy guard re-
list for the NCO's of the fire unit to insure that no im- duced. Skill in such tactics will greatly reduce casualties
portant detail is overlooked. It should permit the neces- as well as increase the effectiveness of the fire unit.
sary latitude to enable the NCO's to use their own 25. Horizontal fire is fire directed at any ground or
initiative in meeting each situation as it arises. It will, water target, such as tanks, torpedo boats, trucks, march-
ofcourse, be based on the SOP of the next higher unit. ing troops or strong points. The technique of such fire
The SOP should be maintained up to date, and is generally simpler than AA fire but differs in detail.
changesbrought to the attention of all members of the Practice in firing at simulated ground targets should be
crew. afforded during the next phase of the training.
21. Field exercises provide the means of combining 26. Air-borne attack depends for its success on sur-
the various individual subjects considered in the train- prise and speed. It attempts to overwhelm the enemy
a
ing program, and also serve as practical examination before he can organize to meet it. Successful defense
ofthe proficiency of the fire unit in such subjects. Such against such attack therefore requires that the organiza-
exercisesshould be simple at first, considering but two tion be effected before the attack occurs. Hence, up-to-
or three subjects at a time. The first exercise may treat date plans of defense should be prepared and practiced,
the several subjects relating to occupation of positions. which will insure that determined resistance will be
Each fire unit should act independently. The second offered to any likely air-borne attack. The training
exercise should cover movement, reconnaissance, se- should cover the forms of attack likely to be attempted
lectionof positions, occupation, fortification, and evacu- and the proper measures to take against each of those
ation. This should include the platoons as the inde- several forms.
pendent unit and take two to three days. The final 27. As long as the line soldier is to be called on to
exerciseshould be participated in by the entire battery, perfonn fatigue duties, garrison guard, kitchen police,
and include all subjects including infantry tactics and and other routine administrative work, he must be
covera period of three to four days. Full criticism of the given the opportunity to make up instruction lost while
operationshould be made, favorable as well as unfavor- performing such duties. By assigning the fire unit as a
able. Initiative should be encouraged but guided. Ac- whole to fatigue or guard duty as often as required, and
tions of the enemy should always be simulated, but allowing for such time in the training program, the in-
never permitted to take a stereotyped form. Where dividual soldier may be assured that he will not miss
possiblethe two sides of the problem can be carried on any important instruction. He cannot be expected to
Simultaneously, pitting one group against another. make up at odd moments the instruction his comrades
Care must be taken, however, to see that the exercise "werereceiving while he was performing such duties.
i~under proper control. These exercises should empha- Since the fire unit is a closely knit team, the weakness
SIzetechnique of handling equipment and personnel, of one member will impair the efficiency of the whole
and should stress independent operation of the unit team.
concerned. 28. Sickness and furloughs are unavoidable even
. 22. Tests and inspections are the means of determin- during important training periods, and should be
mg the progress of the training. They should be con- planned for. When an absence occurs due to such
ducted often enough to insure that mistakes and incor- causes, the man should be replaced by an outstanding
~ectpractices are corrected. Both materiel and training man of similar training from a less advanced fire unit.
inspectionsshould be thorough and unexpected. The Upon the return to duty of the absent soldier he should
enemyseldom gives warning and allows little time for then take his place in the less advanced unit. Transfers
preparation.The commander wants to know how good between batteries should be undertaken, if necessary,
histroopsare, not how good they can be. to accomplish this. Only in this way can the training
. 23. Infantry drill is an excellent disciplinary train- of the fire units be maintained at the highest attainable
Il1g aid and should not be neglected. Artillery work is level.
USuallyinformal to the degree that discipline may de- The order of presentation of the subjects above
24 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL Septemher-Dctober
enumerated will depend upon local facilities, availabil- horizontal and diving, if the latter can be arranged for.
ity of instructors and equipment, and the state of train- The azimuth tracker should be taught to track off, when
ing of the men in such subjects. The training program necessary, to obtain line of sight shots. Gun pointers
should be varied to maintain interest, but should inte- and machine gunners should master the technique of
grate the subjects, as they are mastered, into the every fire control on coming targets. Altitudes should be kept
day activity of the soldier. Each subject should be con- as low as possible. Concentrate on obtaining a few hits
sidered first in its elementary form, combined with re- quickly rather than a larger number of hits over the
lated subjects, tested in field exercises, and then covered whole course. Avoid the tendency to open fire when
more thoroughly, repeating the cycle until the subject the target is still beyond effective range.
is not only understood in itself, but its relation to the The fourth stage should cover maneuvering and div-
othe] subjects clearly understood. ing targets, such as radio-controlled target planes and
Training aids, such as training films, film strips, the T-I target. Service conditions should be simulated
charts, diagrams, models, miniature target ranges, train- as nearly as possible. Battle sounds should be provided,
ing devices, etc., should be utilized to the greatest practi- as by firecrackers or phonographs. Casualty replace-
cable extent. Trips to air fields,. factories, prepared ment should be practiced. Some firing using gas masks
emplacements, and other points of interest should be should be required. Firing from actual field positions
arranged whenever advantageous. Interest and pro- should be practiced if firing range permits. Hedge-
ficiency should be meticulously rewarded, and indol- hopping targets approaching at high speed from any
ence and indifference treated severely. Men should be direction would give ideal training for combating such
kept on their toes. The AW fire unit member must targets in battle. Safety precautions might advantage-
develop lightening-like reactions, and every effort to ously be relaxed to some extent if a real gain in battle
stimulate this development should be practiced. realism can be obtained.
Approximately sixteen weeks will be required for Horizontal fire on a~timechanized target range or on
this preparatory training phase. water targets should be arranged for, and satisfactory
technique developed for such fire.
IV The results of the target practice should not be meas-
TARGET PRACTICE PHASE ured by the number of rounds fired, but by the degree
The target practice phase of the training plan in- of proficiency attained. The fire unit which enters
cludes all firing of the automatic cannon and local de- battle with insufficient firing experience will waste far
fense machine gun. This firing should include all types more ammunition than was "saved" by denying it suf-
of fire control expected to be used in service and should ficient target practice, and will be ineffective as well.
afford opportunity for alternates as well as principals to Certainly peacetime allotments are grossly insufficient
become proficient in the fire control duties of each posi- now and should not be the basis of ammunition
tion. requirements for training in time of war.
The target practice phase may, for convenience, be From ten days to two weeks will be required for the
divided into four stages. target practice training phase.
The first or preliminary stage should be devoted to
V
the development of fire discipline, interpretation of
tracer observations, development of steadiness under TACTICAL TRAINING PHASE
the distraction of firing, and overcoming gun shyness. The tactical training phase is designed to amalgamate
Proper procedures for misfires and stoppages should all the subjects covered in the preliminary training
be stressed during this stage. phase into an ordered and systematic plan of military
The second stage should be devoted to the technique operations. This process of amalgamation should be
of adjusting fire on simple crossing courses. The ele- started with the field exercises of the first training phase.
vation tracker should be taught to track off if necessary The logical conclusion of such process would be the
to obtain line of sight shots. Gun pointers should de- actual entry into battle, where the training program
velop skill in their particular type of fire contro1. Ma- will receive its final and decisive test in the crucible of
chine gunners should learn to estimate and apply the war. Between those two limits should be given a series
proper leads and correct same by tracer observation. The of progressive field problems and exercises designed t?
percentage of hits should gradually increase during this duplicate, to as complete a detail as possible, the van-
stage. Average slant ranges should not exceed 1,000 ous operations which the fire unit will be expected to
yards for director control, 800 yards for gun sight con- perform in battle.
trol, and 400 yards for machine gun firing. Flag targets Classroom instruction for this phase should include
should be used, if obtainable. If possible, provision to the tactics of the AW fire unit in detail, and the general
visually indicate and identify hits should be made, principles of the tactics of the AW platoon, battery.
either through the use of high explosive, or through the and battalion in both rear and forward area defense.
use of painted shells. Outlines of AW employment with the supported armS
The third stage should cover coming courses, both (Air Force, Armored Force, Infantry, Cavalry) should
19../2 TRAINING THE AUTOMATIC WEAPONS FIRE UNIT 25
be given, supplemented if possible by examples and the feeling that war is grim business, and not a game
training films. with umpires and various colored flags.
Each exercise should be planned with a definite train- Obviously the use of live ammunition will produce
ing objective in mind. The exercises should be held casualties. The decision as to how far to go in this direc-
in strange territory. The troops should be subjected to tion will be answered by the answer to the question,
preliminary operations which will produce the state of 'Will the increase in effectiveness and decrease in casu-
physicaland mental fatigue inseparable with battle con- alties of these troops when they enter battle greatly
ditions. The presence of friendly troops should be real offset the casualties suffered in training?" The shoul-
or simulated. Priorities for right-of-way, selection of ders of higher commanders must be broad enough to
positions, supplies, and replacements should be set up, bear the responsibility for the mistakes of subordinates.
as would be the case in actual operations. The actions The experiences of the British in their Commando
of the enemy in disrupting communications, raiding, training should be a clear guide as to the extent of
destruction of supplies and equipment, and other con- using live ammunition in our training.
ditions existing in actual operations, should be pain- Throughout these exercises, commanders of all units
stakingly simulated. Enemy reconnaissance agencies should be alert to commend outstanding performances
should be duplicated and the information so obtained as well as to correct tactical and technical errors. Com-
shown to the fire unit members at the critique. Every petent observers from strange units can be used with
effortshould be made to develop initiative in the men, advantage to report on the activities of each unit. Time
but impossible or ridiculous situations should be avoided. should be provided between exercises to permit careful
Preparation of field exercises involves the following critiques of the previous exercise, so that mistakes can
principal phases: be remedied and successful methods passed on to others.
a. Outline of general situation. Care should be taken by battalion and higher com-
b. Outline of special situation, to include terrain, manders that some fire units are not continuously em-
troops participating, special mission of unit. ployed in a single type of operation. Each fire unit
c. The sequence of events, or scenario, to include should, as far as possible, engage in every type of op-
orders, alerts, intelligence messages, etc. eration to be covered.
d. Duration of the exercise. Personnel weaknesses will undoubtedly show up in
e. Ground area and equipment to be used. the course of these exercises. The man who can't pro-
f. The general tactical principles to be illustrated and duce in maneuvers certainly won't do so in battle. The
demonstrated. NCO or officer who fails to make the grade should be
g. The general scheme of Director or Umpire Con- reassigned after being given a fair chance to make
trol and representation of hostile forces. good. An ample supply of new material will be dis-
covered to replace these ineffectives. The old military
Further information is contained in Section VIII, criterion of "Results" must be adhered to if an effective
FM 21-5, July 16, 1941. fighting machine is to be obtained.
Obviously these exercises will be participated in by Our soldiers will have to meet the veterans of many
manyorganizations. The AW platoon, battery, and bat- years of modern and brutal warfare. The Japanese and
talion should be employed in successively larger scale German soldiers have proved their thorough training
exercises.Maneuvers with troops of other arms should and know how to fight modern war. Unless we provide
culminatethe series of exercises, so that the AA soldiers the same thorough training for our men, we are asking
canlearn at first hand how these arms function in battle. many of them to throwaway their lives uselessly. Our
Realism must be striven for, even to the extent of men are the finest in the world. They can learn more
using live ammunition in some cases, both by ground quickly than any other soldier. But they must be
troopsand by planes. Troops must be impressed with trained. Let us see that they are!

The Post Office Department and the Army Postal


Service cooperate with the JOURNAL to bring you your
magazine on time. Won't you cooperate by informing
us of changes of address, promptly?
De lection Board Ml*
By Captain John T. Kelton, Coast Artillery Corps
The deflection board, M I, is the present standard South, and the one nearest the wind-speed scale by
direction correction device for guns in seacoast artillery. batteries oriented from North. Th~ other feature is
It can also be used with mortars. This board is designed that once the wind arm is set to the azimuth of the bal-
for use with either Case II or Case III pointing and listic wind, it rotates with the auxiliary azimuth scale,
can be used for calculation of direction data in mils as and automatically maintains the correct relation be.
well as degrees. tween the azimuth of the target and the wind azimuth.
I. DESCRIPTION OF BOARD' c. Ballistic correction mechanism.
a. Azim'uth mechanism. Corrections for wind and drift and rotation are set
As issued, the board is set up for use in degrees. (See into the board by means of the ballistic-correction mech.
figure 1.) The board can be converted for use in mils anism. It consists of a ballistic-correction chart, wind
by substitution of the alternate set of gears and reversal pointer, wind handwheel, rotation pointer, rotation
of the main and auxiliary azimuth scales and the adjust- knob, auxiliary are, azimuth read index, and two lock
ment correction scale. The method by which this is knobs.
accomplished is explained in Section VII, Conversion The ballistic-correction chart is mounted on the roll-
to Operation in Mils. The following discussion assumes ers to allow setting the proper range arc under the
a board set up for operation in degrees. wind and rotation pointers. Each chart is prepared for
The main azimuth plate is rotatably mounted at the a particular combination of gun and ammunition.
pinde of the board. It carries the main azimuth scale Wind and drift curves are drawn representing the com.
which is divided into four quadrants; each quadrant bined lateral effects of wind and drift, with effects as
being graduated from 0° to 10° with least graduations abscissas and range as ordinates. On its left side, the
of .05°. Small changes are made by means of the azi- chart bears similarly plotted curves for the lateral effects
muth knob. The auxiliary azimuth scales are on the of rotation of the earth. Elevations or ranges are the
base plates of the wind-resolving mechanism and the ordinates on the chart and an elevation index is
displacement corrector. An index is associated with mounted at the upper right corner of the chart plate.
each auxiliary scale. The auxiliary scales are graduated On the newer charts a time-of-flight scale is included.
from 0° to 360° with a least graduation of 10°. Hun- The wind pointer is pivoted at the pintle; thus
dreds and tens of degrees are read on the auxiliary scale moving in an arc across the chart when it is actuated by
while degrees and decimal parts of degrees are read on means of the wind handwheel. Both the wind hand-
the main azimuth scale. For operation in degrees, the wheel and chart knob are provided with hinged shafts
main azimuth scale is geared to the auxiliary azimuth and knurled sleeves to allow them to be swung in for
scales in a ratio of 9 to 1. placing the cover on the board.
Two alternate set indexes are provided, the second Engagement of the wind lock knob communicates
4 ° clockwise from the first and the third 10° clock- movement of the wind pointer to the adjustment cor-
wise from the first. They may be of use under certain rection index. Engagement of the adjustment lock
conditions. A main read index is provided at the out- knob locks this index to the plate bearing the adjust-
put side of the board. (See figure 2.) ment correction scale and main azimuth read index.
b. Wind-resolving mechanism. Thus, with both lock knobs engaged, displacement of
the wind pointer causes corresponding displacement of
The wind-resolving mechanism is carried on a spindle
the main azimuth read index. Since the main azimuth
mounted on the wind bar which is geared to the main
read index plate is connected to the arm bearing the
azimuth plate. The operation of the wind-resolving
displacement corrector spindle, a similar correction is
mechanism is similar to the wind-component instru-
introduced into the azimuth reading for the displaced
ment except for two features. Two wind-azimuth
gun.
pointers are provided instead of one as on the wind-
Rotation corrections are put in by turning the rota-
component indicator. The pointer farthest from the
tion knob to position the rotation pointer.2 This dis-
wind-speed scale is used by batteries oriented from
places the main set indexes and the azimuth must be
*This article is condensed from a forthcoming training bulletin of reset in order to introduce the rotation correction.
the Coast Artillery School. For Standard Nomenclature List Ml De-
:!l.ectionBoard, see SNL F-19. "Ballistic charts for some 6.inch and 155mm guns do not have ro-
lIt may be found helpful occasionallyto refer to the pertinent parts tation curves because of the negligible rotation corrections at the
of Section V while studying the board. ranges fired.
PINTLE

BASE~
" /TRAVEL CHART
MAIN AZIMUTH PLATE
WINO AZIMUTH DEFLECTION
,/ SCALE
POINTER ~
MAIN AZIMUT_"' __~
SETTING INDEXES

~
AUXILIARY ARC ~-..........

ROTATING KNOB~~

WINO HANDWHE~

ROTATING POINTE~
ROTATION CURVES"
CHART PLATE-\

ZERO DEFLECTION

i
LINE ""
SPROCKET CHAIN~

BALLISTIC CHART "\:

KNOB SLEEVE
KNURLED

WINO POINTER

SIDE PLATE-- \ \
BALLIST~~ACROTRRECTION WIND CURVES

Figure 1

d. Lateral adjustment correctiolls. attached to an arm pivoted at the pintle and may be
Corrections for lateral adjustment are made by dis- held fixed to the shaft by tightening the gun arm set-
placing the azimuth read index independently of the screw. The gun arm is provided with an index so that
wind correction pointer. An adjustment correction scale it may be set to the azimuth of the displaced gun using
is fixed to the plate bearing. the azimuth-read index. the auxiliary azimuth scale.
When the adjustment lock knob is loosened, the adjust- The curve disk is mounted between the base plate
ment correction scale and azimuth-read index may be and the gun arm. The disk carries a series of target
mo\'ed along the main azimuth scale to effect the ad- range curves. Linear displacements are engraved on the
justment correction indicated by the intersection of periphery of the disk and, the gun arm having been set
adjustment correction index with the adjustment cor- at the azimuth of the displaced gun and locked, the
rection scale. During such movement the adjustment curve disk may be rotated to bring the proper linear
correction index remains locked to the wind pointer. displacement under the displacement pointer on the
Thus the lateral adjustment correction is algebraically gun arm. Thereafter the disk will revolve with the
added to the ballistic corrections. The adjustment cor- base plate and gun arm and is thus kept properly
rection scale being connected with the displacement oriented in azimuth. The target range must be set into
corrector, the adjustment correction is applied to the the corrector by keeping the range pointer on the gun
data for the displaced gun. arm positioned on the proper range curve. This is ac-
e. Displacement corrector. complished by turning the range knob. The setting of
The 1\1I deBection board is provided with a device these values positions the pin on the top slide which
for determining parallax correction for a displaced gun causes the parallax arm to rotate about its pivot at the
up to 500 yards linear displacement and a parallax cor- pintle of the board. The corrected azimuth for the
rection of 2°. The displacement corrector operates displaced gun may be read from the main azimuth scale
t~rough computation of an approximate graphical solu- at the lower index of the parallax arm in conjunction
tIon. For discussion of the theory see F1\1 4-15, para- with the auxiliary azimuth scale and index.
graph 107 g. As issued, the displacement correction device is
The displacement corrector consists of a base plate adapted solely for use in degrees for the reason that the
geared to the main azimuth plate in the same ratio as curve disk is engraved for operation in degrees only.
the base plate on the wind-resolving mechanism, 9 to I. For adaptation to mil operation, see Section VII.
The read auxiliary azimuth scale is engraved on this f. Anglliar travel computing mechanism.
baseplate. The gun arm is mounted on a vertical shaft The angular travel computing mechanism (figure 3)
28 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL
consists of the travel arm, travel scale, travel chart, and
S'ptemb"-Octob,,,
until the proper time of flight (obtained by reference
l
deflection arm . The travel arm is pivoted at the pintle to the ballistic chart) on the 20-second scale is under
of the board and is attached to the main azimuth plate the cross-wire.
by means of a slip-friction device allowing movement The travel chart also bears travel curves plotted
of the travel arm independently of the main azimuth either side of the straight 6-normalline. These curves
plate but causing the arm to move with the main azi- are marked in the same reference-number system found
muth plate within the limits of mo\'ement of the arm. on the travel scale.
The travel scale is marked on the travel arm plate, The travel chart having been rolled, as described. to
which is fixed to the base of the board. The travel scale the time of flight for the corrected range or ele\'ation.
is graduated in travel reference numbers with a normal the deflection arm is moved so its reading edge (beveled
of 6.00. The travel arm, in conjunction with the edge) falls over the point of intersection of the cross-
travel scale, acts as a subtraction device which takes the wire with the travel curve bearing the same reference
difference between successive azimuth readings. The number as that previously read from the travel scale.
main azimuth circle having once been set to the uncor- g. De~ectioll-complltillg mecllmzisl1I.
rected target azimuth and the travel arm set to normal \Vith the wind lock knob and adjustment lock knob
on the travel scale, the next uncorrected target azimuth engaged, movement of the wind pointer is communi-
is set. The travel arm moves with the main azimuth cated to the deflection scale. Thus scale displacement
plate and will be displaced an amount equal to the introduces the correction for wind and drift.
angular travel of the target during the observing inter- The correction for travel of the target is algebraically
val. This angular travel is read on the travel scale. The added to the correction for wind and drift by displace-
travel arm is then reset at normal in preparation for the ment of the deflection index on the deflection arm. the
next angular travel reading. arm having been displaced by setting it to the proper
Angular travel during the observing interval, as read travel curve. The algebraic addition of corrections for
from the travel scale, must be converted into angular wind, drift, and travel is thus accomplished to allow
travel during time of flight in order to compute deflec- reading of the deflection as indicated by the deflection
tion. This is accomplished by means of the travel chart index on the deflection scale.
and deflection arm. The travel chart is carried on two Four deflection scales are provided for use on the
rollers, one being a drive roller and the other a spring board. For operation in degrees, scales having normals
roller. The chart has two time-of-flight scales plotted of 3.00, 6.00, and 10.00 are prO\'ided. The scale to use
near the left edge. One time-of-flight scale presumes a is that having the same normal as the sighting equip-
20-second observation interval and the other a different ment on the gun. One deflection scale with a normal of
observation interval. If a 20-second observation interval 200 is for use when the board is set up for operation in
is being used, the chart may be positioned by rolling it mils.

INDEX SCREWS ......

INDEX
DISPLACED GUN,

ADJUSTMENT
CORRECTION SCALE
,-
ADJUSTMENT
....MAIN AZIMUTH
CORRECTION INDEX
...... SCALE
_MAIN READ INDEX
ADJUSTMENT
LOCK KNOB
/BASE PLATE

LOCK KNOB

Figure 2
19-12 DEFLECTION BOARD J\I I 29

TRAVEL ARM
DEFLECTION
INDEX
TRAVEL SCALE

DEFLECTION DEFLECTION
ARM SCALE

CROSS WIRE

TRAVEL CHART

TRAVEL CURVES

Figure 3
II. CHECKING ASSEl\1BLY AND CORRECTIVE [\,IIEASURES. plate through one com- I b.
The assembly of each board must be checked when plete revolution and check
issued to the using organization. In the past, a consid- that both auxiliary azimuth
erable number of incorrectly assembled boards have scales rotate exactlv 40°.
been issued. 2. Wind Arm. 2. Observe whether
The methods of checking and the corresponding cor- Note reading of wind wind read pointer slide
rective measures are shown in chart form below: azimuth pointer; rotate binds on top plate. If so,
CHECK CORRECTIVE MEAS- main azimuth plate. Read- remove top of wind arm
URES ing of wind azimuth point- and bend slightly convex;
I. Assembly of Azimuth I. er should remain the same. replace. Otherwise, remove
Mechanism. top plate and bend clip
a. Auxiliary indexes on a. Loosen auxiliary in- spring slightly to increase
100 line when main in- dex screws; move indexes friction; replace.
dexes are at zero. to 100 line and tighten 3. Travel Arm. 3. Slide travel arm back
screws. Turn main azimuth over pintle and bend inner
b. Move main azimuth b. Disassemble wind- plate through at least 2 a end of arm upward slightly.
plate until auxiliary set in- resolving mechanism and in both directions; travel
dex is at zero; loosen wind displacement corrector and arm should move exactly
lock knob and place read check gears. Auxiliary spur the same amount as meas-
index at zero. Both auxil- and pinion gear should ured on travel scale.
iary set and read indexes bear mark "for deg. only." 4. Ballistic Correction 4. Remove side plate;
should indicate zero. Displacemen t corrector Chart Assembly. loosen chart assembly base
gears should be meshed, Outer edge of roller plate screws; remove chart
arrowed tooth to arrowed brackets on left should be assembly; remove roller
slot. \Vind-resolving mech- flush with chart assembly bracket screws; remove roll-
anism gears should be base plate. On right, roller ers; remove spacer screws
meshed, starred tooth to brackets should be set in in bottom of base plate; re-
starred slot. Reassemble approximately 7/I6-inches. move chart plate and spac-
displacement corrector and ers; turn base plate 180 0

wind-resolving mechanism, so that roller brackets will


positioning base plates so be set in on right side and
auxiliarv scales read zero. reassemble in inverse order
c. Rotate main auxiliary c. Follow measures in of disassembly.
30 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October
III. l\10UNTING THE CHARTS the wind and rotation pointers on their lines of zero
deflection3 and rolling the chart a considerable distance.
a. General.
The wind and rotation pointers should remain on the
Suitable charts for use on the Ml deflection board lines at all times. If this test results satisfactorily, roll
may be obtained from the Coast Artillery Board, Fort the chart until the arc of zero range intersects the wind
Monroe, Virginia. In ordering charts, give the caliber pointer, and move the wind pointer through the com-
and model of gun, the type and model of carriage, the plete arc, using the wind handwheel. The pointer ought
projectiles, powder charges, and standard muzzle veloc- to follow the arc closely, except perhaps toward the
ity for which charts are desired. State also whether the outer limits of the arc. If results of this test are satis-
charts are desired for operation in mils or degrees. Each factory, replace the side plate. To set the elevation
chart is designed only for a particular combination of index at zero range or elevation, roll the chart to place
gun and ammunition and must be used only with that the zero range or elevation arc at the reading edge of the
particular combination. wind pointer and loosen the index adjusting screws.
The newer ballistic correction charts have a time-of- Now, move the index to zero and tighten the screws.
Right scale plotted parallel to the range or elevation If the wind and rotation pointers fail to remain on
scale. For Case II pointing, a time-of-flight scale should their zero deRection lines, or the reading edge of the
be plotted on any charts lacking such a scale. This can wind pointer fails to follow the arc, loosen the base plate
easily be done locally by bleaching a column on the screws and, by trial and error, attempt to find a position
chart slightly to the left of the range or elevation scale in which the chart will check. If this cannot be done
and plotting the times of flight corresponding to the the chart must be remounted. '
range or elevation scale as determined by reference to Considerable care must be used in positioning all
the proper firing table. In Case II pointing, such a charts on the M 1 deflection boards. Data is put into the
scale prevents the confusion incident to the range cor- board through the medium of these charts, and the
rection board operator calling the time of flight corre- performance of the board is dependent upon the charts
sponding to the corrected range or elevation. being correctly positioned.
Where the guns are equipped with range drums and c. The trcwel chart.
utilize range-range relations on the percentage corrector Before mounting the travel chart, cut it along the
tape, considerable inaccuracy may result if the corrected trim lines if necessary. Slip the top of the chart under
range as read from the percentage corrector is set on the the horizontal wire and mount the top edge of the chart
range scale of the ballistic correction chart. In such case squarely on the drive roller by means of scotch tape or
a new range scale involving the proper range~range re- other adhesive material.
lation should be plotted on the ballistic correction chart. Roll the chart on the drive roller until the bottom of
b. The hallistic correction chart. the chart reaches the center of the outer side of the
Before mounting the ballistic correction chart, cut it spring roller. Roll the spring roller back against its
along the side trim lines so as to give the chart the same spring and, holding it in this position, fasten the bot-
width as the distance between the shoulders of the tom of the chart to it with scotch tape.
rollers. This allows a close fit between the chart and Sometimes it is desired to have the same zero setting
the roller edges, thus preventing creeping of the chart. for the board for both Case III and Case II, in order to
Remove the side plate of the board by taking out the accomplish a quick change from one case to the other.
side plate screws. Remove the two ballistic correction To accomplish this, zero the board for Case III (see
chart base plate screws and slide out the ballistic correc- Vb) and set the deflection index to the normal on the
tion chart assembly. Lay the chart across the two rollers deflection scale. Slide the travel chart laterally on the
so that the lower edge coincides with the axis of the drive roller until the 6 normal line falls under the read-
drive roller. Fix the lower edge of the chart to the ing edge, and fasten the chart to the rollers in this posi-
roller, using scotch tape or similar adhesive tape. Main- tion in the manner previously described.
tain a slight tension on the upper edge of the chart at In any case, the mounted travel chart should be teste~
its center and roll the chart onto the drive roller until by placing the reading edge of the deRection arm so It
the upper edge of the chart coincides with the axis of cuts the 6 normal line and then rolling the chart
through the limits of its movement to make sure that
the spring roller. Roll the spring roller back against the
the line remains on the reading edge of the deHectlOn
tension of its spring and mount the chart on the roller
arm. If the chart does not respond to this test, it must
in a manner similar to that followed with the drive
be remounted.
roller.
Mount the ballistic chart roller assembly on the in- IV. THE LATERAL ADJUSTMENT SCALE

strument and test the positioning of the chart by setting As furnished on the board, the adjustment scales for
both degrees and mils are engraved with a zero normal
'The zero deflection lines are straight lines passing downward on
the chart.
which necessitates the use of "left" and "right" correc'
19..f2 DEFLECTION BOARD M1 31
tions.~ This mav cause confusion. In some batteries (a) Wind
the adjustment ~cale in degrees has been revised to ~ (b) Drift
300 normal system. This revision has been accom- (c) Rotation of the earth
plished by pasting tabs bearing the numbers' in the new (d) Azimuth difference due to parallax
Systemover the 0 and 1, 2, and 3 each side of the nor-
~rovision is also made for the application of lateral
~al, reference numbers 2, 1 and 0 to the left, and 4, 5
ad~ustment corrections to the data for the directing
and 6 to the right of normal. The decimal numbers to
pomt and for the displaced point alike.
the left of 3 must also be renumbered by use of tabs.
When firing Case III, the input operator sits facing
The new reference number system is the same as that
the wind and drift curves. The output operator sits
used to read lateral corrections on the azimuth instru-
facing the opposite side of the board.
ment M1901A1 and on the M3 spotting board.
As graduated, the adjustment correction scale in mils (2) Initial Adjustment. The input operator sets the
is not suitable for use on a board otherwise set up for wind pointer to its zero deflection line. This is the
operation in degrees, nor can the degree adjustment straight line downward from the origin of the wind
scalebe used on a board set up for operation in mils. curves which is marked "zero deflection" on the newer
This is due to the fact that the degree adjustment scale charts. He also sets the rotation pointer to its zero de-
is constructed for a ratio of 9 to 1 while that for mils is flection line, which is the straight line down the left
constructed for a ratio of 8 to 1. The factor of error side of the chart and is also marked "zero deflection" on
would therefore be of the order of 8 to 9. While new ~he newer charts. The output operator loosens the ad-
miland degree scales could be constructed for use with Justment lock knob and moves the adjustment scale to
a board operating in the other units, the simplest way read zero correction, and tightens the adjustment lock
to solvethe problem is to make the conversion from mils knob. If the reading at the azimuth read index is not
todegreesor vice versa on the lateral adjustment board. 5 the same as that at the azimuth set index, the output
operator loosens the wind lock knob. He then moves
V. OPERA'I'ION6 the plate bearing the reading index left or right until
a. General. the azimuth read index indicates the same azimuth as
Operation of the M1 deflection board requires two the azimuth set index. Then he tightens the wind lock
men. The input operator sits facing the wind and drift knob. All corrections and constants of construction
curvesfor both cases of pointing. The output operator have been eliminated. This preliminary adjustment is
is equipped with a telephone allowing him to transmit commonly called "zeroing the board." As a rule, the
correctedazimuths or deflections to the azimuth setters board will require readjustment when changing from
or gun pointers at the guns. When operating with one case of firing to another. This initial adjustment,
Case III pointing, the output operator sits facing the or zeroing, should be accomplished for the case of
azimuthread index while with Case II pointing, he sits pointing to be used each time the range section is
facingthe travel chart and deflection scale. When the posted.
displacementcorrector is used, a second output operator (3) Checking the hoard. Check data are entered
isrequired to read and transmit corrected azimuths for upon each ballistic correction chart issued by the Coast
the displaced gun. Artillery Board. These consist of settings marked by
h. Case HI Pointing. circles for the wind and rotation pointers on an arc at
about mid-range. A firing elevation or range, an uncor-
(I) General. When the battery is firing Case III,
rected azimuth, and the proper corrected azimuth are
the board solves the problem of computation of a cor-
also given.
rected azimuth from the directing point to the target
and a corrected azimuth for use at a point displaced To make the check, first zero the board, then set the
fr~mthe directing point. In computing the corrected ballistic chart to the indicated elevation or range, next
aZ1muth,corrections to the uncorrected azimuth to the set the wind and rotation7 pointers to their respective
set-forwardpoint may be applied on the M1 board for points as marked by the circles and then set the uncor-
rected azimuth at the set indexes on the main and auxil-
--thefollowing conditions:
. 'Since preparation of this article, deflection boards have been
ISSuedwith an adjustment correction scale having a normal of 300 and
iary azimuth scales. The corrected azimuth recorded
on the chart should appear at the auxiliary and main
a reference number system as explained in this section. read indexes. If it does not, then try to check the board
V'For description of this method, see COAST ARTILLERYJOURNAL, on check data for other ammunition which is given in
.01. LXXXV, No. 4 (July-August, 1942), pp. 43-44, or Informa-
u(onTopic No. 26, Coast Artillery School, Department of Artillery
another section of the same chart. If the board checks
1942), Pp. 3-5. on this other data, then prior failure to check was due
8 .'The directions for use of the board contained in TM 9-463, Gun, to inaccuracies in the check data on the other chart and
-m., Mk. VI, Mod. 3A2 and Mount, Railway, Gun, 8-in., MIAI
(Jan. 26, 1942), paragraph 114; TM 9-1570, Plotting Boards for Sea- the board may be considered as functioning properly.
coast.Artillery (May 8, 1942), paragraph 15 and in other Ordnance
~hcations are incomplete and unsatisfactory for seacoast artillery. 'If there are no rotation curves on the chart used, run the rotation
. r example, no mention is made of the necessity of initially adjust- pointer against its stop and fasten it, maintaining it in this position
I1Ig or "zeroing" both for Case II and Case III. throughout.
32 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-october
However, if upon the second attempt with other data, deflection component is noted for setting by means of
there is still any substantial discrepancy, the assembly the wind arm.
of the board and proper operation of all its parts should The wind and drift chart is then positioned, using
be closely examined and the source of the error elimi- the corrected range or elevation, by rolling the chart
nated. The procedure outlined in Section II should be until the elevation index points to the proper range or
used. elevation. The wind pointer is then moved, by turning
Should the using organization, after diligent study, the wind handwheel, until the pointer is on the curve
be unable to discover the cause of malfunctioning, the corresponding to the deflection wind component. Inter-
board should be turned in to the Ordnance for repair. polated settings must be chosen between the ten unit
Once a board has been ascertained to function cor- lines. The movement of the pointer introduces a COr-
rectly, the range officer should cause frequent periodic rection for wind and drift by moving the azimuth read-
checks to be made to insure that the board continues so ing index ..
to function. Correction for the effect of the earth's rotation is
made by setting the rotation pointer to the curve cor-
(4) Operation, Input Operator. The input operator
responding to the uncorrected azimuth of the target by
operates the wind-resolving mechanism and sets the
means of the rotation knob. When this correction is
rotation pointer; the wind pointer, and the uncorrected
applied, the azimuth setting index is displaced, so the
azimuth.
operator must readjust the setting of the uncorrected
The wind-resolving mechanism resolves the wind azimuth after the rotation pointer is set. In this way the
into two components, the range component and the de- correction is introduced into the output reading by
flection component. From the meteorological message, algebraically adding it to the input.
the direction and speed of the ballistic wind for the
The input operator sets the new uncorrected azimuth
maximum ordinate attained is extracted. The direction
when it is furnished. Changes in corrected range or
of the wind in the meteorological message is always in
elevation are applied by rolling the wind and drift
hundreds of mils, clockwise from North, and is set in
chart. Changes in range or elevation will require small
that form regardless of the azimuth reference line used
changes in the setting of the wind and rotation point-
by the battery. When the battery is oriented from ers. The operator will observe the wind read pointer.
South, the operator sets the wind azimuth pointer
When the range component changes, he will announce
farthest from the wind-speed scale to the wind azimuth it to the range correction board. When the deflection
in hundreds of mils on the wind azimuth scale. If the
component changes, he will reset the wind pointer to
battery is oriented from North, the pointer nearest the the new value.
wind-speed scale is used. The operator then slides the The setting of approximate data enables less move-
wind read pointer along the wind arm to the gradua- ment and quicker setting when data comes through on
tion corresponding to the speed of the ballistic wind as the first set-forward point.
extracted from the meteorological message. The wind
In order to insure smoother data, the input operator
arm will thereafter be carried around as the azimuth
should be trained not to disturb the setting of the range-
settings are changed, maintaining the proper relation
correction chart in range or elevation, or the wind and
of wind and target azimuths, and indicating on the grid
rotation pointers until a perceptible change is required.
scales the range and deflection components of the wind.
The habit of touching each knob when changes in
The uncorrected azimuth is set by rotating the main elevation or range are so small as not to warrant any
azimuth plate either by the azimuth knob or by pulling change is to be discouraged. Unwarranted adjustment
the plate around for large, rapid changes. The azimuth results in erratic corrected azimuths.
setting is indicated by two scales and indexes. The
setting to the nearest ten degrees is indicated on the (5) The Output Operator. The output operator
auxiliary azimuth scale on the base plate of the wind- reads corrected azimuths, operates the displacement
resolving mechanism by the auxiliary set index. The corrector, and applies any adjustment corrections or-
units and decimal parts of a degree are indicated on the dered.
main azimuth plate by the main azimuth set index. For The azimuth reading scales are similar to those used
convenience in reading, each ten degrees of both scales by the input operator, and consist of an auxiliary scale
are marked with alternate black and white segments. and index for reading hundreds and tens of degrees,
When the main azimuth set index is in a black sector, and the main azimuth plate and index for units and
the proper reading on the auxiliary scale is in the near- decimal parts of a degree. The black and white seW
est black sector. On a correctly assembled board, the ments on the scales indicate the reading on the a~I-
colored sectors are useful when the reading is very close iary scale to combine with the reading from the mam
to a multiple of 10° . azimuth scale. However, if the auxiliary azimuth
The next step is the reading of the range and deflec- pointers have been correctly adjusted, there should be
tion wind components. The range component is given no need for recourse to this method except where the
to the operator of the range correction board, and the reading is very close to a multiple of 10°
1942 DEFLECTION BOARD Ml 33
The output operator also applies adjustment correc- The board algebraically adds these corrections, result-
tions by loosening the adjustment lock knob and mov- ing in the output of deflection. The board also has a
ing the adjustment correction scale until the ordered provision for introducing a lateral adjustment correc-
correction is set. He then tightens the adjustment lock tion into this deflection. A correction for rotation of the
knob. This movement of the adjustment scale accom- earth cannot be made for Case II. It will be recalled
plishes a corresponding movement of the azimuth read- also that parallax corrections are not made when firing
ing index and the displacement corrector, thus alge- Case II; therefore the displacement corrector is not used
braically adding the adjustment correction to the cor- with Case II.
rected azimuth for the D.P. and the corrected azimuth Since no correction can be made for rotation of the
read from the parallax arm for the displaced point. earth when operating the board for Case II pointing,
The displacement corrector is very useful in a two-- the rotation pointer should be run back against its
gun battery when the displacement does not exceed 500 stop and fastened to the rotation knob. In this way the
yards and the parallax does not exceed 20

main azimuth set index is held fixed.
In operating the displacement corrector, the output
(2) Initial Adjustment. The input operator sets the
operator requires the following data:
wind pointer to the zero deflection line on the wind and
(a) The distance in yards between the directing drift chart. The output operator loosens the adjust-
point and the point for which the displaced data is to ment lock knob and sets the adjustment correction
be computed. This is called the displacement, and scale to zero and tightens the adjustment lock knob.
must not exceed 5DO yards. He then sets the reading edge of the deflection arm on
(b) The azimuth of the above displacement, meas- the 6.00 normal line of the travel chart. If the deflec-
ured from the directing point to the offset point. tion read index is not already at the' normal of the de-
(c) The uncorrected range to the set-forward point. flection scale, he loosens the wind lock knob and moves
the deflection scale until the normal is at the deflection
The first two elements of the above data are fixed by reading index. He then tightens the wind lock knob,
the orientation of the battery; the third must be re- completing the initial adjustment for Case II. Usually
adjusted constantly while tracking. The azimuth of the this will not mean that the board is also adjusted for
displacement is used to position the gun arm in direc- Case III.
tion. The operator loosens the setscrew at the pivot of
the gun arm and turns the arm until the azimuth of (3) Checking the Board. Charts supplied by the
the displacement is indicated at the index under the Coast Artillery Board for use on the M 1 deflection board
range-adjusting screw and then tightens the setscrew. do not have check data for Case II firing. While some
The gun arm will thereafter rotate with the base plate check may be made by following the check procedure
of the corrector. The displacement in yards is used to given above for Case III pointing and additionally
position the curve disk. Grasping the curve disk and checking the operation of the travel arm, this does not
the auxiliary azimuth plate between the thumb and enable an overall check for Case II.
fingers,the operator rotates the curve disk until the dis- A much more satisfactory procedure is to calculate
placement in yards is indicated under the displacement Case II check data from the firing table and plot the
pointer. A friction clamp will then carry the curve disk data on the ballistic correction chart and the travel
with the auxiliary scale and the gun arm as the azimuth chart. The range or elevation and the calculated deflec-
changes. When tracking, the operator turns the range- tion should be marked on the ballistic correction chart
adjusting screw, keeping the range pointer on the curve and the position for the wind pointer should be marked.
corresponding to the uncorrected range to the set-for- No rotation correction should be calculated or entered,
ward point. inasmuch as no correction for rotation may be made on
The gun arm, through a double slide, causes the the board in computation of deflections for Case II
parallax arm to swing in an arc corresponding to the pointing. An assumed travel should be plotted on the
necessaryparallax correction. When this correction is travel chart. Care must be taken that the Case II check
zero,the index on the end of the parallax arm coincides data can be readily distinguished from the check data
withthe azimuth reading index. The corrected azimuth for Case III.
forthe offset point is read on the main azimuth plate at Having plotted Case II check data on the charts, and
the index on the lower end of the parallax arm. having previously zeroed the board for Case II as de-
c. Case 11 Pointing. scribed above, the input operator rolls the ballistic cor-
(1) General. When the battery is firing Case II, rection chart to the elevation or range of the check
theboard enables corrections to be made for the follow- data. He then sets the wind pointer to its indicated
ing conditions: position. The output operator then reads the time of
(a) Wind flight indicated on the ballistic correction chart by the
(b) Drift elevation index and rolls the travel chart until that
(c) Travel during time of flight time of flight in the column for the proper observation
34 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October
interval appears under the cross-wire.The output opera- index. This procedure is continued as data for new
tor then sets the deflection arm to the indicated travel points are determined.
reference number and reads the deflection indicated bv It must be remembered that the travel reference
the deflection reading index on the deflection scale. Th~ number indicated on the travel scale represents azimuth
deflection read should be the same as that calculated difference between successive points. Thus the travel
from the check data; othenvise, the malfunctioning of reference number determined between two successive
the board must be remedied. set-forward points or two successive plotted points is
(4) Operation, Input Operator. The input operator reliable. However, when the data for the first 5et-
operates the wind-resolving. mechanism and the wind forward point is determined, it cannot be utilized with
and drift mechanism, and sets the uncorrected azimuths the previous data on a plotted point, for the azimuth
as called from the plotting board. difference between a plotted point and a set-forward
point is no indication of travel of the target as computed
Operation of the wind-resolving mechanism is the
on the board.
same as that for Case III pointing described above.
The input operator calls the range wind component to VII. CONVERSION TO OPERATION IN MILS
the range correction board operator and notes the deflec- When the board is to be operated in mils, the follow-
tion component for the subsequent setting of the wind ing changes must be made:
pointer. 1. Completely disassemble all parts above the main
The input operator next sets the target azimuth, as azimuth plate.
called from the plotting board, on the auxiliary and 2. Remove the screws holding the main azimuth
main azimuth scales by rotation of the main azimuth scale; reverse the scale to place the mil scale on top.
plate. When the corrected range or elevation is called 3. Reassemble, replacing the auxiliary pinion gears
by the percentage corrector operator, the input operator and auxiliary spur gears with those marked "for mils
I "
rolls the ballistic chart to set this range or elevation at ony.
the elevation index. Next, he turns the wind hand- 4. In reassembling the wind-resolving mechanism
wheel to set the wind pointer on the curve for the de- and the displacement corrector, be sure to reverse the
flection wind component indicated on the wind-resolv- base plates on each so that the auxiliary mil scales (64
ing mechanism. Interpolation will be necessary, for divisions) are on the upper side.
the curves are drawn on the chart only for each ten 5. Remove the screws holding the adjustment scale,
units in the reference-number scale. reverse the scale to bring the mil side up, and replace
Setting of data for subsequent points as announced the screws.
from the plotting board is done in a similar manner. 6. Replace ballistic correction chart with one con-
Changes in settings should be avoided when the structed for operation in mils.
changes are within the accidental error in setting. 7. Replace the deflection scale with the scale having
a normal of 200 which is supplieClwith the board for
(5) Operation, Outpu.t Operator. When the input
operation in mils.
operator has set the target azimuth, the output operator
moves the travel arm so that its reading edge cuts the The travel scale and travel chart are suitable for op-
travel scale at 6.00, its normal. Then, as soon as the eration in either mils or degrees. Consequently these
ballistic correction chart has been positioned in range or are not changed for conversion to operation in mils.
elevation, the output operator notes the time of Right The curve disk on the displacement corrector is
indicated by the elevation pointer and rolls the travel graduated only for operation in degrees. However, cor-
chart until this time of flight on the column for the rect parallax will be indicated in mil operation if the
proper observation interval falls under the cross wire. setting in yards, used to position the curve disk, is taken
When the main azimuth plate is rotated to set the as the actual displacement multiplied by the factor 8/9.
next azimuth, the travel arm follows the movement of Otherwise, operation of the board in mils is the same as
the main azimuth plate and measures the azimuth dif- for degrees.
ference between the two points in terms of travel refer- ADDENDUM
ence numbers. The output operator then notes the Since preparation of the article, the M 1 Deflection
travel reference number and resets the travel arm to Board has been modified to substitute a new parallax
normal. After the input operator has positioned the scale (on the plate which carries the auxiliary read
ballistic correction chart for the new range or elevation, index). The parallax scale previously on the board with
the output operator sets the travel chart to the proper a normal of two was not of use to the Coast Artillery.
time of flight as before. Then he brings the reading However, this new scale has a normal of zero and is
edge of the deflection arm over the intersection of the marked in the same reference number system as that
cross wire with the travel curve corresponding to the used on parallax scale of data transmitter. Thus, ,,,here
reference number previously read on the travel scale. a data transmitter is used, the parallax on this scale at
He transmits to the gun pointers the deflection indi- the point indicated by the upper index on the parallax
cated on the deflection scale by the deflection reading arm may be directly set into the data transmitter.
BARRAGE BALLOONS*
By lieutenant Colonel William H. Kendall and Captain
Ralph H. Redford, Coast Artillery Corps
Barrage balloons are an important defense against very low altitude balloons. The three different classi-
hostile aircraft; their purpose is to protect relatively fications of balloons may be either of the dilatable or the
small areas from destruction-power plants, bridges, ballonet type. The dilatable type balloon envelope is a
railroad yards, ship yards, and factories. They have no single cell. The envelope is of a four or more lobe
firepower, no armor, little mobility; they carry no crew. design held in this shape by a series of elastic cords,
Their effectiveness lies in their ability to force pilots to known as expansion cords, which tie across opposite
flyat an altitude' favorable to our own antiaircraft guns, grooves for practically the entire length of the envelope.
and in the positive destructive action of their cables As the balloon ascends,.the lifting gas expands, the cords
against hostile aircraft. Bomber pilots have become elongate, and there is an increase in volume of the
aware that a series of barrage balloons is a most formi- envelope. On descending, the lifting gas contracts, the
dable obstacle when they are out to bomb a specific tension of the elastic cords is reduced, and the volume
target; hence they have a tremendous morale value of the envelope is reduced. In construction of the en-
(l) by throwing the hostile pilot into a state of high velope, the panels are joined to form gores which are
nervous tension-the fear of the unknown-in that he subsequently joined to form the envelope.
cannot see the cable, and when skies are overcast, he The ballonet type balloon is divided into two cham-
never knows that he has seen all of the balloons; and bers, gas and air, separated by a diaphragm. The dia-
(2) by instilling into our own troops and civilians a phragm forms the partition between the gas and air
justifiable feeling of security which allows them to chambers of the balloon and is attached to the envelope
pursue their normal tasks unhampered by a constant proper at approximately one-half the distance between
dread of air attack. the equator of the balloon and the bottom of the en-
During the First World War, the French used bar- velope. It is so designed that when the ballonet com-
rage balloons to protect important buildings-army partment is full of air, the diaphragm at its uppermost
headquarters at Chalons-sur-Seine and steel mills at point will reach the equator line and when the com-
Nancy. The English experimented with a steel net sus- partment is empty it will lie along the floor of the en-
pended by three balloons about five hundred yards velope. In the envelope construction, the panels are
apart. This network of steel cable was designed to joined to form rings which are subsequently joined to
enmesh enemy planes and bring them down. The bal- form the envelope. As the balloon ascends, the lifting
loonswere sent up in series, holding one huge network gas expands and depresses the ballonet diaphragm, forc-
of steel. This. proved unsuccessful. The Italians used ing the air from the ballonet out through the air valves
barrage balloons in a manner similar to the present in the bottom of the envelope. On descending, the lifting
systemto protect Venice and its shipping. The Ameri- gas contracts, and when the pressure of the wind ex-
cans used balloons solely for observation, utilizing the ceeds the pressure in the ballonet, the air enters through
Caquot French balloon. At the end of the war, we the ballonet air scoop, maintaining the external shape
had seventeen balloons of our own manufacture at the of the balloon. During ascent, the expansion of the lift-
front. We had one hundred ninety balloon companies ing gas forces the air from the ballonet until it is empty,
in service, of which about ninety were at the front. and the diaphragm lies against the envelope. If ascent
Our modern balloon is flown separately and is continues after the ballonet is empty, expansion of the
equipped with only one cable, which is attached to the lifting gas co'ntinues, increasing the internal pressure
balloon by means of rigging and is paid out from a in the gas compartment. To prevent the pressure from
winch. The various ropes that dangle from the present- becoming dangerously high, an automatic gas valve is
dayballoon are mainly for the purpose of ground han- provided on the side of the envelope to permit the escape
dling-they form the rigging by which the balloon may of the gas.
be ground-maneuvered and bedded down. The damage The envelope of the very low altitude balloon is ap-
toaircraft is done by the anchoring cable and any lethal proximately thirty to thirty-three feet in length and ten
deviceswhich may be attached. to twelve feet in diameter, as compared with the low
altitude balloon which is approximately seventy-five to
CLASSIFICATION
eighty-five feet in length and thirty to thirty-five feet in
Barrage balloons may be classified into three general diameter, and the high altitude balloon which is ap-

-
types:high altitude balloons, low altitude balloons, and
.*Reprinted from Command and General Staff School Military Re-
~ew, by permission of the editors.
proximately 110 to 120 feet in length and thirty-five
to forty-fivefeet in diameter. All three types of balloons
are constructed of two-ply bias, neo-prene coated, long-
---,
36 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October

I-Dilatable type balloon, bedded down. 2-Elastic shock


cords inside dilatable balloon. 3-Ballonet balloon
being walked to the winch. 4-Ballonet balloon with
air-inflated fins, flown close-hauled. 5-Ballonet bal-
loon bedded down with fins furled.

ORGANIZATION

The basic tactical unit for barrage balloons is a sepa-


rate battalion. This separate battalion consists of forty-
three officers and 1,106 enlisted men. It operates both
tactically and administratively. The separate battalion ,
is made up of four batteries: a headquarters battery.
containing a service platoon which furnishes weather
data, operates the inHation gas service section, and main-
staple cotton fabric. At present, experiments are being tains the balloon repair section; and three lettered bat-
conducted in an effort to produce a more durable, teries A, B, and C. A lettered battery consists of an
liO'ohterfabric so as to oO'ive the balloon more liftinO' operations platoon and two balloon platoons, each pla-
0
power. toon containing nine balloon squads. A battery is or-
A smaller ballonet balloon than the one first issued to ganized to operate eighteen balloons. Thus a battalion
barrage balloon organizations is now in production. It has control of fifty-four balloons. These balloons may
is an improvement over the earlier ballonet in that the all be bedded down, or all or any part may be flying at
fins are air inHated and are not dependent on gas pres- whatever altitude is desired.
sure to give them the stiffness necessary to provide aero- Each battalion has its own weather section which j

dynamic stability to the balloon. This balloon may be furnishes the weather forecast to all batteries. It is im-
bedded down with a smaller crew and is less vulnerable portant that this section be highly trained because it is
to ground storms than either the earlier type ballonet or the weather data received which determines whether or
dilatable balloons. Its fins may be furled while on the not the balloons fly and at what altitude it is safe to fly
ground. In normal weather it may be Hown close- them. A battalion maintains and operates its own h~'-
hauled while moored to the bed, so that its nose will drogen generating plant. It is the responsibility of thiS
head into the wind at all times. section to see that inHation gas in sufficient quantities
1942 BARRAGE BALLOONS 37
is always presem at the balloon sites. Each battalion The next higher command, when more than one bat-
maintains and operates a rigging and fabric repair sec- talion is required to defend an area, is the group. The
tion. If a balloon is shot down or damaged, this section group is set up mainly as a tactical organization and con-
repairs the balloon, if possible, and places it back into sists of thirteen officers and ninety-three enlisted men
ser\'ice. The battalion supply section must at all times but has no balloons organically. The geographical 10-
have balloons on hand that can be placed in service. cation will to a great extent determine the requirements,
A balloon squad is required to prepare and maintain responsibilities, and functions of the group.
the site upon which the balloon is located. This site is Each balloon site is connected by telephone to the
the area which contains the balloon bed, "yinch posi- Battalion Command Post. The Battalion Command
tion, the ascension point, and the balloon maneuvering Post may be connected to Group Command Post or di-
area. It is desirable that a balloon site have an area at rectly to the Antiaircraft Control Headquarters. This
least a hundred yards in diameter and clear of all ob- communications net makes it possible to pass commands
structions above the ground which might damage the from the Antiaircraft Control Headquarters direct to
balloon. Within this area is constructed the balloon the balloon site with the least possible confusion and
bed, the dimensions of which depend upon the type of delay.
bed constructed. The balloon squad must be able to Situations at port of embarkation and other locations
keep its balloon flying at the required altitude at all along the coast line require that balloons be flown from
times. This means that if the balloon is lost or de- boats, barges, or piling platforms. Here the matter of
stroyed, a spare balloon must be placed in flight with- communications becomes more difficult and requires the
out delay. use of two-wav radio from site to shore.
TACTICS
There is at present under consideration a mobile bar-
A balloon barrage consists of the personnel and equip- rage balloon battalion which would handle the very
ment necessary to fly a given number of balloons in one low altitude balloon. This battalion could be used to
area for the protection of that area. The size, location, protect troop and supply columns, defiles, river cross-
and presence or absence of natural obstacles to avenues ings, and similar hostile bombing objectives against
of hostile air attack, as well as the presence or absence strafing by enemy aircraft.
of antiaircraft gun defenses, will determine how many
CONCLUSION
and what types of balloons will be required. As a rule,
however, the desired minimum number of balloons in The maintenance and operation of barrage balloons
a barrage to protect a small objective is thirty-six. The is new to the armed forces of the United States. We
defense of a large area may call for a hundred or more have received from the British a great deal of advice as
balloons. a result of their recent experiences. Barrage Balloon
For defense against dive bombers, barrage balloons work is now emerging from its embryonic stage, and
must be clustered closely about the defended area, leav- though there is still a great amount of development yet
ing, however, sufficient spacing between balloons to to be made before reaching perfection, serviceable,
avoid entanglement of the cables in shifting winds. usable, and effective balloons and related equipment are
During air raids, each balloon squad at each site in a now in the hands of well-trained organizations. Ex-
barrage must be able to fly its balloons at the required perience has proved that barrage balloons can be and
altitude, or to quickly close-haul or bed down its bal- have been effective against hostile aircraft. By further
loon in order to give precedence to other weapons or research an.dactual experience, American ingenuity will
methods of defense, or to allow friendly airplanes to prove that the barrage balloon is an important weapon
enter the area. against hostile aircraft.

Defensive fortifications and potential resources are


not enough. Wars are won by carrying the fight to the
enemy.-HoN. ROBERTP. PATTERSON.
He
H

Convoy under an umbrella of kite balloons, a

t midget variety of the barrage balloon. Kite


balloons have accounted for at least six enemy
aircraft, and have saved an estimated 200 ships.
Photo: Briti.'ifh ComlJine

~
This one is a regular barrage balloon,
protecting a vessel from dive bombers.
Photo: British Gombino

Kite balloons being transferred from the bal-


loon launch to deeply-laden merchant ships.
~ Photo: British Official
,......-

~RAGE BALLOONS
~TSEA
~ritain Protects
rerchant Ships

Kite balloons in a depot barge of the Kite Bal-


i
loon Section of the Royal Navy. A naval lighter
stands by to take a balloon to a merchant vessel.
Photo: Brin~h Oombine

g a balloon cable
t
convoy sets sail.
. British Official

,.

r
'0'

1 __
I"
'"
I

::1"
.. .,
I
g up - the mer- 'I,
"
{sailor'sguardian. ,

Briti.oh Cambino
"
' ...,
THE TASK AHEAD*
By Major General Joseph A. Green
I appreciate the honor of being here this morning his untimely death about a year ago, was Commandant
and welcome the opportunity to talk to you young of the Command and General Staff School. This essay
officers for a few moments at a time when vou are on was published in the Command and General Staff
the point of joining your first commands. But first of Quarterly and reprinted in the COAST An.TILLElW
all, I want to congratulate you on having successfully JOURNAL.You must remember that when you take
completed the course at this school. You would not be your places in the units to which you are being assigned
here today to recei\'e your commissions if there was any you will be called upon to instruct, to train, and to look
doubt in the mind of General Spiller or of the school after the well being of others who fill lesser places in
faculty as to your ability to command men with firm- the units. Those are definite leadership responsibilities.
ness and justness and to instruct them properly in the All of you have had at least three months' service in
use of antiaircraft weapons. The school has decided our replacement centers or elsewhere so know the kind
that you possess the initiative, the intelligence, the of young man of which our Army is made up today. I
energy, and the alertness of mind that must be possessed am sure you will agree with me that by and large they
by the successful antiaircraft officer. The course is a are splendid, intelligent, patriotic young Americans.
hard one, but it also is an excellent one, for command- They are eager to come to battle with the enemy, lick
ers everywhere are enthusiastic regarding the type of him completely, and get the job done, but that requires
young officers turned out by this school. I believe that understanding leadership. We look to the graduates
its product is so highly regarded because those responsi- of this school to provide that kind of leadership.
ble for its operation keep constantly in mind that its We all know that up to the present time the war has
sole purpose is to turn out officersqualified to command not been going as we would like to have it. I am very
antiaircraft units, and that carries with it physical much afraid in fact that if a warrior from Mars were
fitness, a sound knowledge of gunnery, and a capacity afforded an opportunity to make a quick survey of the
for leadership. The school in the limited time avail- military situation on this battered old earth of ours
able has done all it can to equip you professionally, and were told of the long string of enemy victories he
but it is only a beginning, and it will be necessary for would almost surely place his bets on the final out-
you constantly by your own efforts to further your pro- come of the war on the Axis powers. But if he had
fessional knowledge. knowledge of the enormous industrial resources of this
By a capacity for leadership I mean the courage and country and of the determination of its people and
the evident high purpose that commands the respect knew that we are today training an army, ever increas-
and loyalty of the men serving in your command. ing in size, just as rapidly as it can be equipped, he
Many of the outstanding soldiers of today and of days surely would cover his bets. The expansion that this Of-
gone by, realizing the importance of leadership, have ficer Candidate School has undergone in the past year is,
written on that subject. You can greatly increase your I think, symbolic of the expansion of the army as a
own capacity for leadership by reading or studying whole, and of the increased rate of production of essen-
some of these writings. The earliest treatise on this tial war materials-guns, ammunition, planes, tanks,
subject of which I have knowledge was by General ships, transportation, communication equipment, and
James Wolfe, who in 1759, with his few thousand men, of a thousand other items.
scaled the Heights of Abraham at Quebec and there, I have no doubt, and I am sure that you have none,
by his victory, added half a continent to the British that complete victory ultimately will be ours, but we
Empire. There is in the library at Fort Monroe a very are fighting resourceful enemies, and herculean efforts
small volume entitled General Wolfe's Advice to His on our part are necessary. Our troops on the battle-
Young Officers. I discovered that book there years ago.
1
field have got to be better trained and better led than
General Wolfe was telling his officers how to lead, in- our enemies. We can not afford to make the mistake
struct, and inspire their men. He recognized the value of underestimating their fighting qualities. A mistake
of leadership. One of the best essays on leadership of that kind would surely result in lost battles, lost
that I have read recently and that is available to all of campaigns, and possibly a lost war. You and I as sol-
you was written by General E. L. Gruber who, until diers must do all we can to see that the American Army
is the best army in the world. I know that you first as
*General Green, President of our Association and Commanding
General"Antiaircraft Command, Army Ground Forces, delivered this platoon leaders and later as battery, battalion, and
address to a class graduating from the Officer Candidate School at higher commanders will do your part to see that your
Camp Davis, North Carolina.
'Abstract on page 42. troops are so well trained that Nipponese or Nazi Hiers
1942 THE TASK AHEAD 41
once having experienced the fire of your guns will have wish each of you could have seen it. As the problem
nOdesire to undergo that experience a second time. was staged, the enemy was assumed to have established
The successes that our enemies have attained on the two very strong centers of resistance on dominating
far flung battlefields of the world prior to our entrance points of land that could be seen from our point of ob-
into the war and subsequent to that time have in nearly servation. These centers of resistance, prior to the ad-
all cases been due to the fact that in each particular vance of the infantry and tank forces, were softened by
theater they managed to have air superiority. At first artillery fire and air attack. I don't know the number
glance it might seem that this business of air superiority of planes involved, but numerous flights came over dur-
is merely one of being able to manufacture more planes ing a two-hour period. These dominating points were
and train more pilots than can the Germans and the literally chewed to pieces largely by bombs from diving
Japs. We can do that, and we are doing it, but you and low-level flight planes. It didn't seem to those of
must remember that although our bombers can get us who witnessed this attack that anyone in those
overseas under their own power our smaller planes- centers of resistance could have survived. The positions
pursuit, attack, and observation-must be transported were finally assumed to have been sufficiently softened,
by ship. It is evident, therefore, that we must take and they certainly were, to permit the infantry to ad-
every possible measure to conserve our aircraft for air vance to attack, but your Commandant and I both
combat and for attack on enemy positions. There is a agreed that if the defending forces had been real forces
great deal that the ground components of our Army can reinforced by two or even one automatic weapons bat-
do to assist in maintaining this air superiority. None talion the enemy air attacks could have been broken
of these components is in a better position to aid in this up, and the machine gun and 40mm crews of the au-
than is the antiaircraft artillery, for if we are really tomatic weapons battalion, if well trained and led,
good, we can defend our multitude of airdromes, and could have exacted a terrible toll of enemy planes. Di-
we are expected to do that, and so prevent th~ wanton visions and corps in battle must have automatic weap-
destruction of our planes on the ground; and we can ons protection. Some of you later on will be command-
make the air over our own front line divisions and corps ing or serving in antiaircraft battalions that are attached
so untenable for the enemy that our troops if on the to front line divisions.
defensive will be able to hold their positions, and if on Keep in mind always the ultimate and, in fact, the
the offensive will be able to advance. Again if we know. sole reason for organizing, equipping, schooling, and
how to use our weapons, we will be able to defend our training antiaircraft batteries. That purpose is to shoot
ports of debarkation, our depots, and our lines of com- down enemy aircraft-not merely to shoot at them, but
munication. If we can successfully accomplish these to bring them down. To do that the guns must be so
missions,it means that we will be able to release a large effectively manned that when the fleeting opportunity
part of our air force from purely defensive missions and does come each man in everyone of your gun crews
to leave them free to cripple the enemy by attacks on will know just what he is to do and how to do it. In
his troop concentrations and other critical areas. Battles other words, when the critical moment arrives, there
can not be won by purely defensive measures. Don't must be perfect timing and perfect teamwork. It won't
worry about guns and equipment. You can take my work out that way unless you as their leaders have de-
word for it that they are now coming off the line in veloped a very smoothly functioning team-to do that
ever increasing quantities. The thing to remember you yourself have got to know the job of every man in
though is that to accomplish our mission we must know your gun and fire control crew. That is going to re-
how to use the excellent guns and fire control equip- quire continuous and diligent work on your part.
ment placed in our hands and have our antiaircraft com- I am afraid that I have painted a pretty gloomy pic-
bat teams well trained and well led. ture for you on your graduation day after three months
A short time ago there was held at Fort Benning a of the hardest kind of work on your part, for I have
three-day demonstration that was witnessed by prac- been telling you that your work has just begun; that as
ticallyevery corps and division commander in this coun-
leaders of men you have taken on your shoulders a most
try and by many other officers of high rank. General
serious responsibility; and that with you and those who
Spiller, Colonel Jackson, and I were among those who
have preceded you from this school and those who will
were fortunate enough to be present. On the final day
there was staged an attack by a war strength infantry follow you rests the responsibility for manning effect-
division reinforced ,by strong air and tank support. ively the thousands of antiaircraft guns that almost
The attack was made against a simulated enemy divi- surely will be employed in this war before complete
sion. Live ammunition was used during the seven-hour victory finally is ours. You have a hard job ahead, but
period the attack lasted. It was all very realistic, and I I have confidence in your ability to deliver the goods.
Instructions for Young Officers
By GENERAL WOLFE

vVhen a young gentleman betakes himself to the They are to get exact lists of the mens necessaries,
profession of arms, he should seriously reflect upon the and as 'well as the captains, of the arms, accoutrements
nature and duties of the way of life he has entered into, and ~tores. '
and consider, that it is not as the generality of people They under the captains are to be answerable that
vainly imagine, learning a little of the exercise, saluting the proportion of the soldiers pay, ordered by the com-
gracefully, firing his platoon in turn, mounting a few manding officer, (lliz) two shillings and four pence per
guards (generally carelessly enough) and finally, ex- week, be laid out in good and wholesome provisions.
posing his person bravely in the day of battle; which They are to visit their companies quarters at least
will deservedly, and in the opinion of judges, acquire thrice a week, see that they are kept clean, well aired,
him the character of a good officer: no, he must learn and beds made; and that if the landlords have any just
cheerfully to obey his superiors, and that their orders cause of complaint against the soldiers, or the soldiers
and his own be punctually executed. against the landlords, the aggrieved may, by application
As there must of necessity be in a new battalion through the proper channel, find redress.
many young and uninformed officers, I shall, as briefly They should frequently chuse the hour of the sol-
as I am capable, inform them what I think their duty, diers dining for their visitation, that they may judge
and what consequently is expected from them. whether their victuals are comfortably cooked; they
Thev are, without loss of time, to make themselves
/
should particularly at that hour inspect the quarters of
perfect masters of the exercises of the firelock, that they those men who are billeted upon houses of the lowest
may be able to assist in training the young soldiers in class, as they are most likely to be prevailed upon, by
arms. the disobedient soldier, to give him liquor for his meat.
They are constantly to be present at roll-calling; and They must now-and-then occasionally go round the
so soon as they can make themselves acquainted with quarters between nine and eleven at night, to see that
the names and persons of the men in the companies the men keep regular hours conformable to orders, not
they belong to; and so soon as possible with their char- always trusting to the reports of the sergeants.
acters, that they may know the proper subjects to en- A young officer should never think he does too
courage, and point out as examples, as well as those much; they are to attend to the looks of the men, and if
whom it will be necessary to keep a strict hand over. they are any thinner or paler than usual, the reasons of
They are to observe that the men are dressed in a their falling off may be enquired into, and proper
soldier-like manner, and conformable to the orders of means used to restore them to their former vigour.
the regiment.

For the immediate present, the all-important issue is that of win-


ning the war-winning it as soon as possible and winning it decisively.
Into that we must put our utmost effort-now and every day until
victory is won,
A bitter armed attack on human freedom has aroused mankind to
new heights ctf courage, determination, and moral strength. It has
evoked a spirit of work, sacrifice, and cooperative effort. With that
strength and with that spirit we shall win.-HoN. CORDELLHULL.
The German 88mm Gun
By Colonel James C. Crockett, General Staff Corps
The Gennan 88mm antiaircraft o oun has latelv. been The approximate characteristics of the 88mm guns
proclaimed by many commentators and news analysts of the ba tten' visi ted were as follows:
as the weapon which brings success to Gem1an armored
Length of barrel 16 feet
operations. The same groups once proclaimed blitz-
Elevation +87, -3 degrees
krieuo and later the Stuka dive bomber as the source of
!\'Iuzzle velocitv 2,900 feet per second
that success. The source, however, could better be
i\Iaximum ran~e o 16.000 yards (9 miles)
sought in the tactical training of the battle leaders.
\Veight in firing position 11,000 pounds
The German 88mm antiaircraft gun is a highly de-
Weight of projectile 19.8 pounds
,'e1oped modern gun-probably not as good as our 90mm
Rate of fire about 12 rounds per minute
antiaircraft gun, but nevertheless an excellent weapon.
In the fall of 1935 the writer visited an antiaircraft The Germans undoubtedly learned a great deal con-
batten' stationed near Furstenwalde, outside Berlin. cerning the tactical handling of these guns in the cam-
The personnel of the battery belonged to the Llfft- paign on the western front. There they had great suc-
waffe, the German Air Force, which is charged with cess using it to fire into the apertures of fortified posi-
all antiaircraft operations. The battery consisted of tions. Because of the high velocity, approximately
four 88mm guns as pictured below. These guns were 2,900 feet per second, the projectile would penetrate
IOlI'ed by heavy cross-country half-track vehicles in the armor of the French and Belgian fortifications and
each of which rode about twelve men of the gun crew. jam the revolving cupolas. It is easy to see how the
Four other similar vehicles, interchangeable for towing Germans drew the conclusion that the gun would be a
the guns, carried ammunition for the battery. Accom- good weapon against tanks.
panying the battery was a large electrically-operated Having found the antiaircraft gun suitable for sec-
range finder. Four mechanical hand-operated range ondary use as an antitank defense weapon, the Ger-
finders were also with the battery as auxiliary means. mans use it for this purpose when the tactical situation
[\s explained by the Germans, the gun was primarily permits.
nn antiaircraft weapon. It could be traversed 360 de- The guns of the battery visited and the guns used by
grees and could be elevated to almost eighty-seven the Germans in Libya were on the same model.
degrees. It could be depressed to a minus three de- The antiaircraft gun with its high velOcity and Bat
grees which made it suitable for secondary use as an trajectory is especially suitable for accurate, direct fire
antitank gun. The Germans at that time did not stress against tanks. The diagram shows the approximate tra-
the antitank characteristics of the gun, nor is it likely jectory of the 88mm gun, and indicates clearly the
that they then fully realized its value as an antitank danger space of a tank when under fire from this gun.
weapon.
The Germans have several other antiaircraft guns

GOO 700 800 900 1000


----
44 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURJ\lAL September-October

which they use as antitank guns when the tactical situa- I. Surprise
tion demands. For instance, in their Armored Army 2. Suitable terrain
troops a battalion of thirty-six AA guns is available for 3. The absence of enemy massed antitank defense.
antitank use in addition to the regular antitank bat- The third of these prerequisites is assured for an
talion of forty-two guns. In their armored divisions armored unit by the use of its superior mobility ~n~v~id-
there is usually an antiaircraft battalion consisting of ing areas of massed antitank defense, or if thIS IS Im-
about thirty-three AA guns which may be used for possible by neutralizing these areas by weapons most
antitank defense in addition to the antitank battalion of suitable for attack against these antitank means. !he
forty-eight AT guns. But all of these antiaircraft and selection of the proper weapons and their comblO~d
antitank weapons are without armor protection. If employment utilizing suitable terrain features is agam
given such protection, they would for all practical pur- the role of tactics.
poses become tanks. Consequently the personnel which The 88mm gun, like all other successful weapons of
serve the pieces are highly vulnerable to riRe, machine- the German Army, is under constant development, and
oun and artillery fire. It is the proper role of tactics of we may expect to find an improved model in the next
~pposing forces to locate these guns by reconnaissance, battle. In fact an improved model on a self-propel}e~
then to neutralize them by infantry and artillery fire mount can already be found as part of the X)G'{L
and finally when neutralized to destroy their organiza- Armored Army tro~ps on the Russian front.
tion by tank action. Similarly any other weapon, the special char~cter-
There are three prerequisites for successful armored istics of which make it highly suitable for a partIcular
attack. These are: use, will be employed by the Germans for that use.
1942 THE GERMAN 88MM GUN 45
The ever increasing technical development of spe- is made, there will always be a gun which can knock it
cial weapons makes these weapons more and more ef- out, for the simple reason that the tank must have
fective when used under proper conditions, i.e., when mobility while the defending gun can be emplaced in
proper tactics are applied. a stationary position. But the great power of this
However, this technical specialization continually emplaced gun is in turn neutralized by the mobility
narrows the field of tactical employment. In other of the tank, and so on and on. It does not follow that
words the higher the technical specialization, the more the tank is no good or that the gun is no good. It does
specialized becomes the tactics of employment. The follow that to conquer either, advantage must be taken
experience of the present war shows clearly that as the of its weaker or limiting characteristics and again this
teChnical development progresses so must the tactical is the very
essence of tactics.
training be more thorough. Today's battles can not be The fighting crew of the German 88mm AA gun is
won by tactically untrained leaders. extremely vulnerable as can be seen. The crew is not
Modern technical development has brought us spe- protected against riRe or MG fire by armor. If it is,
cializedweapons never dreamed of in earlier wars. But such armor is only a small shield and affords protection
by the very nature of these weapons, they are useless only in one direction. The gunners have very little or
unless employed in combination with the proper auxili- no protection. Thus one or two lone infantrymen with
ary and supporting special weapons. riRes taking advantage of cover which can be found
The art of combining the proper weapons-the art even in the desert could infiltrate within riRe range and
of employment of the proper weapons-in a given situa- quickly kill the gun crew and render useless the 88mm
tion is the art of modern battle tactics. This the German gun. Or to give another example, an artillery howitzer
has long recognized and long stressed in his teaching of under cover at 3,000 yards range could kill the 88mm
tactics at the Kriegsakadamie (War College). gun crew by a few bursts of high explosive over its
To criticize the American tank because it can be position.
knockedout by the German 88mm gun is stupid. The To attack frontally the 88mm gun with a weapon
tank-any tank-can be knocked out by a gun of suf- which the gun was designed to combat or with a weap-
ficientcaliber, for instance by a five-inch or larger naval on which the gun can most easily hit does not prove the
gun or a six-inch or larger field gun. By proper tactics gun will defeat all armored operations or that the tank
the tank is not thrown against such guns. The tank like has outlived its usefulness. It does prove, however, that
every other highly-specialized weapon represents a the commander is using poor tactics.
compromise to achieve its definite characteristics. If We have seen the day"in which the blitzkrieg was
the armor is extremely thick in order to obtain maxi- considered the magic key to victory, and then the day in
mum protection and the gun within the tank is ex- which the Stuka dive bomber held the same place.
tremely large in order to obtain maximum fire power, Now we are passing through the days when the magic
then the power plant must be large, heavy and pow- key is the 88mm gun. Let us remember that sound
erful. Such a tank also requires added weight in am- tactics have always been the key to battle success, and
munition and uses more fuel. We thus end with a that victory lies in skillful, educated leadership and in
monsterso heavy it has lost its mobility. By compromise the fighting qualities of troops.
we have a tank which has sufficient armor for normal EDITOR'S NOTE: The success of the. German 88mm
protection, we have a tank gun which will penetrate gun against Allied tanks appears to have resulted
any armor at reasonable fighting ranges and the tank largely from the nature of its camoufiaged emplace-
still has sufficient mobility to maneuver speedily. ment half-buried in desert sand when used against
No matter how thick and tough the armor of a tank Allied tanks lured within punishing artillery range.

Buy War Bondsl


MORALE? It's Wonderful!1
By Major Roger W. Chickering, Coast Artillery Corps
The morning is foggy again. That makes five days in from the outposts a complete change of scene, a Special
a row. The three men look out of their small, not too T raining Program has been set up at Fort \ Vinfield
warm concrete observing station, and remark: "\\Tell! Scott. Troops from sub-posts are brought into this
Here we go again! Another day shot before it ever special training area for periods of one week, in groups
starts!" of approximately two batteries per week. All batteries
'They didn't bring up any new reading material on have now completed the first round of the program, so
that last truck, did they?" the corporal in charge asks it is possible to get a good sample reaction to the scheme
hopefully, knowing perfectly well that he has read from the troops. In a word, that reaction has been
every book and magazine at least three times. "Solid!"
"No luck there," remarks Mike, the No. 1 Observer. Here is how it works:
"And besides that, the checkerboard is broken and so is Two batteries are notified that they are to move to
the radio. I'll go nuts if anybody suggests another game the Special Training Area on a certain date. They
of cribbage." are at first luke-warm, due to the fuss of moving; but
"Even the local jack rabbits hole up in this kind of when it dawns on them that the barracks they will use
weather," glumly observes Eddie, the Spotter. "\\Thy at Scott have all bunks, lockers, and mess gear in them.
don't we join a Lonely Hearts Club? Then at least we'd and that they will not be called on for any guard or
get more mail." fatigue details during this week, they perk up some.
This, or something very much like it, is a situation So leaving a minimum maintenance and security detail
common to the Seacoast Artillery. These men have at their field positions, they move off, still rather skep-
gone through a stiff course of training and have been tical.
assigned to remote base-end stations, or searchlights, or On arrival at Scott, they find that one hour is
gun batteries. The opportunities for recreation and en- enough to get set in their new home. After a quick
tertainment are extremely limited. And after a certain checking over by the Medical Corps, they begin to look
point, a man's ingenuity in thinking up new ways to. around and see what this business is all about. Looking
pass the time between hours of duty becomes sterile. out of the window, they see an athletic field, a gym-
After this process has been extended over the many nasium, a chapel, a theater, a bayonet course, AND an
months of constant field duty since Pearl Harbor, it obstacle course. "Looks pretty good," is the common-
fravs a man's nerves. Quite understandably, morale est comment. For the first time in months, they can eat
takes a nose dive. ' off china, take a good hot shower, buck up their equip-
In an attempt to bolster morale and give the troops ment, and have full use of a complete day room. "Not

Signal Corps Phot"


Little David.
19-/2 . l\IORALE? ITS \VONDERFUU -1-7
bad at all." But the clincher is Passes. There are lots of
passes of sufficient length to allow everybody to go to
tOwn several times during the week.
So now they begin to like the whole idea. The first
day of the special program might catch them a bit un-
awares, for the emphasis is on physical exercise and
general toughening up. 1\ lany of the men have cal-
louses in the wrong places, and muscles in storage. That
condition is soon under control. An hour of good stiff
close-order drill with a brisk band makes the feet move.
Then an hour of bayonet drill on the prescribed course
unkinks shoulder and back muscles. Follow this closely
with a long athletic period, during which races are held
for distances up to a mile; a six-foot push ball is man-
handled; push-ups, sit-ups, and pull-ups executed: and
various ball games organized.
Then to the obstacle course. Due to limitations of
space, the course is short. But as that song writer has
it, "Little David Is Small But! Oh Mv!" In about ISO
yards, there are fifteen obstacles, including rope swings,
rope climbs, a ten-foot wall, a seven-foot wall, mazes,
hurdles, ladders, rail walks, dive throughs and water
hazards. Of the several thousand men who have ne-
gotiated the course so far, only about ten per cent do it
under a minute. The record so far is forty-four seconds,
but there are very few men who have challenged this
mark.
The average time is about seventy seconds. This
time might seem almost too short but, when the course
is properly negotiated, a great deal of exercise for all Ooops. Slipped. Signal Corp!: Photo
parts of the body is packed into those few seconds. The
gasping and panting at the finish line attests to the hike has been made without packs, but as the individual
rigor of the course. batteries return for their next Special Training Periods,
That the course is not too rugged is evidenced by the it is planned to make the hike with packs.
fact that very few casualties have resulted, and all of Following a complete lay-off on Saturday afternoon
these hurts have been minor ones. A splinter here or and Sunday, the program provides more close-order and
there, or a chafed knuckle here are the usual injuries. extended-order drill, more bayonet instruction, and
Any claim that the American soldier hasn't got plenty much more athletics, including that obstacle course.
of vigor, and to spare, will be loudly disputed by this Then a full field inspection is held by a representative
post. \Vhen, after a full day's exercise, a large percent- of regimental or HD Headquarters. The Seacoast
age of the troops will have another go at Little David, Artilleryman, living as he does, near more or less per-
just to see if they can't make better time. These troops manent installations, is not often called on to pitch his
can never be called lethargic or willing to sit down just tent and display his equipment. This formation was
because nobody gave them something to do. included in the program not only as a fine way for
Then on another day, the program calls for drill in higher headquarters to check on the completeness, the
Infantry tactics. Included in this drill are extended- condition, and the cleanliness of equipment, but also
order, counter-infiltration, and counter-paratroop tactics. to instruct the troops against the time when they might
All of these exercises are carried on at a brisk rate, in- be called on to make extensive use of this field equip-
volving plenty of running and dropping into the prone ment. On the whole, it has been highly successful on
position for riflemen. Follow this drill with another run both counts.
at the bayonet course, more athletics, and the obstacle The program also provides several hours during the
course on'ce again and it is no wonder that chow time is week to be filled at the direction of the batten' com-
C\'en more popular than usual. manders. These periods are designed to give the bat-
Saturday morning, the troops are taken on a ten-mile tery commanders an opportunity to give his battery
hike. For the most part this hike is varied by the bat- such training as is not readily adaptable to the field
teries so that the troops can be taken over routes and situation. \Vith the more complete facilities at Fort
terrain new to them> serving to acquaint the troops Scott. the battery commanders are able to expand their
better with the locality. For the first program, this field training, to point up observed weaknesses in their
48 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October

Signal Corp8 Plio


Nothing stale about these men.
batteries, and to obsenre their troops under semi-garri- bets as to the battery champions. The eagerness to best
son conditions for the first time in months. The bat- the rival battery has pointed up the value of this train-
tery commanders have been enthusiastic over the op- ing program. And the Color Battery really sparkles!
portunity for training this afforded. Recently a review and presentation was held in honor
All during the weekly program, firing of the caI. .22 of a class of thirty-five officers and men who had com-
rifle has been conducted at the indoor small-bore range. pleted an advance course in first aid conducted by the
Careful rifle instruction has been given to hundreds of American Red Cross. The troops reviewed were tWO
men who were eligible to fire this training weapon. of the training batteries, the vast majority of whom had
Formal retreat parades are held four times each week. never seen this formation before. They performed
Here again it has been possible for higher head- Famously, both for the desen'edly honored first-aid
quarters to keep in close touch with the state of train- graduates, and in honor of Brigadier General E. A.
ing. The progress made in the course of this program is Stockton, Jr., the commanding general, who was soon
most readily seen in a comparison between the first to leave on a permanent change of station. The troopS
retreat parade, when the troops are rusty on parade enjoved this formation so much that there have been
ground -formations, and the last one, after a week of num'erous requests for a repeat performance. should
hard training. another worth v occasion arise.
The practice of awarding the Colors to the battery Especial err:phasis has been laid on giving the non-
conducting the best program during each day has added commissioned officers a large part in this program.
a keen spirit of competition between the batteries. These men have carried on a large part of the instruc-
\Vherever possible, this spirit has been fostered by inter- tion of all phases of the training. The battery com-
battery athletics of all kinds. Frequently there are races manders have thus been able to see which of their non-
over "Little David," the obstacle course, to settle all commissioned officers are leaders, which are instructors.
1942 MORALE? ITS WONDERFULl 49
SPECIAL TRAINING PERIOD
SCHEDULE "A"

Time Subject. Place Text Instructor


THURSDAY
8:00-11:30 AM Prepare for movement Home station I Batterv officers and NCO's
1:00- 2:00 PM Arrival at Fort Scott Barracks I Battery officers and NCO's
2:00- 3: 15 PM Organization, clean up and
physical inspection Barracks Battery officers and medical
officers
3: 15- 4: 00 PM Inspection in ranks, followed
by retreat parade Parade ground, FM 22-5 Battery commander
FRIDAY, MON- i

DAY, TUESDAY I
8:00- 9:00 AM Infantry drill Athletic field FM 22-5 Battery officers and N CO's
9:00-10:00 AM Infantry tactics Fort Scott Reser. See Par. 46 Battery officers and NCO's
10:00--11 :30 AM Reserved for BC As directed by BC BC
1:00- 2:00 PM Bayonet drill Bayonet course I PM 23-25 Battery officers and NCO's
2:00- 3: 30 PM Supervised athletics Athletic field ' Battery officers and NCO's
,
and SSO
4:00 PM _R_e_tr_e_at_p_ar_a_d_e _ Parade ground I FM 22-5 BC
SATURDAY

8:00-11:30 AM Hike, without packs As directed by BC I Battery officers


1:00- 4:00 PM Voluntary athletics Athletic field None
WEDNESDAY
8:00-10:00 AM Full field inspection Athletic field I Provisional battalion com-
mander and BC
10:00-11:30 AM Inspection in barracks Barracks Provisional battalion com-
mander and BC
1:00- 2:00 PM Bayonet drill Bayonet course PM 23-25 Batterv officers and NCO's
2:00- 3:30 PM Supervised athletics Athletic field Battery officers and NCO's
and SSO.
4:00 PM Retreat parade Parade ground 1 FM 22-5 BC
THURSDAY

8:00- 9:00 AM Inspection in ranks Parade ground FM 22-5 'Provisional battalion com-
mander and BC
9:00-11 :00 AM Prepare for movement Barracks Batterv-' officers and NCO's
11:00 AM Dinner
12:00- 1:00 PM Departure for home station

NOTE:.Fort Scott Small-Bore Range will be available to Schedule "A" batteries from 1:00 to 3:30 PM daily.
111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111.11111111111111.111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111'1111111111111111111111111111111111111111111tllllllll1111111111111111111111

and which are drill masters. It has given the noncom- So now after the week is over, the troops go back into
missioned officers more self-confidence and the troops the field feeling fitter, looking forward to the next
respect them more for it. All in all, it has been a fine chance at "Little David."
opportunity for all concerned to get pep and vigor as So the second round of the program is not received
units, rather than as widely separated detachments. skeptically, but with enthusiasm. Morale and its "poor
One of the major benefits of this program has been state " are comp 1ete If"
y orgotten as a pro blem. "
to bring together the dispersed elements of batteries; For this round, the emphasis remains on sound bodies
to have the battery forget its tactical assignment for a and sound minds. Athletics, bayonet drill, and infantry
whole week; and to get in and work all together for the drill continue. But there will be new features too: in-
firsttime in months. It, in short, has served to remind struction in use of hand grenades with plenty of accu-
Mike and his pals out there in B4S4 that they are still racy throwing, gas chamber and incendiary drill, de-
a part of Battery A, who are a darned fine bunch of contamination; and individual protection. And passes,
men to be teamed up with after all. plenty of them!
Antiaircraft Communications
A Suggested System for a Regional AA Defense Command
By Lieutenant Colonel Peter J. Stevenson, Coast Artillery Corps
The problem of administrative circuits in a large associated switchboards, is often out of the question.
regional AA defense command may be solved readily by Too much time, obviously, is consumed in switching.
following normal patterns. That of intelligence com- In the search for an alternative, the "farmers' party
munications, however, is more difficult. The systems line" idea has been proposed. Aren't these rural lines
described in various AA field manuals need some mod- famous as disseminators of information? Therefore, it
ification. Hence the two-wire army field system, with its is recommended that the loop--circuit system, linking

COMMAND AND INTELLIGENCE


TELEPHONE CIRCUITS -AREA DEFENSE
1942 ANTIAIRCRAFT COMMUNICATIONS 51
all operators at the various positions be installed to To supplement wire communications, a complete
save vital time in antiaircraft communications. radio system of frequency modulated transmission may
It is borne in mind, of course, that there are limits to be planned in the ultra-high frequency bands. Stand-
the number of operators who can use one loop, and ard fifty-watt police-type transmitters could be used,
likewise limits in terms of message traffic and line with a frequency assignment for each sector and a cen-
transmission. Furthermore, while it is essential that in- tralized control system on a fourth frequency. The ar-
telligence get through with a minimum of delay, con- rangement could be such that the control transmitter at
trol points where the information can be filtered are the brigade operations board could communicate with
clearly needed, both to obviate superfluous messages any particular sector, or all sectors simultaneously. This
and to allow evaluation of the data received. Finally, it radio system would not be for general use, but would
is only natural that both OP and searchlight positions stand by in case of wire communication failure or alerts,
should be on common circuits terminating at these con- The equipment should be regional, not organizational;
trol points. it should remain in a given sector and not be moved
The control points are designated as sector filter around when the AA regiments move.
centers. The searchlight platoon as a tactical organiza- As for administrative circuits, a complete communi-
tion may be selected as the unit in which all operators cations system would extend from the Command down
would use a common circuit terminating at the sector to the lower units, and here again a minimum of field
filter board. wire would be employed. Commercial facilities should
There is also the problem of transmitting this filter be used when possible down to regiments, and in many
intelligence to the gun batteries and remote automatic cases, battalions might lease commercial switchboards
weapons units outside the gun defense area. This prob- and phones.
lem may be solved by placing all firing units within a Generally speaking, from battalions down, leased
sector on a common loop, which in turn terminates at lines and army field equipment should be used.
the sector or regimental filter board. From each sector Thus it is possible, granted fairly good transmission,
filter board, a separate circuit may be run to the brigade for the Command to reach any gun battery through ad-
operations board and control center. Information can ministrative circuits. Moreover, leased PBX switch-
be transmitted through the sector board by verbal re- boards at regiments make it possible for any metropoli-
peat. tan number in one AA region to be connected with any
The command circuit set-up is a virtual duplicate metropolitan number in another AA region through a
of the inner intelligence or gun circuit. All fire units, PBX switchboard at the AAA Command.
as well as the sector filter centers, may be linked in a Further plans should call for mobile automotive
common circuit terminating at the operations board. radio installations in the various AA regions which can
Here there are a number of key circuits. embracing a be connected through wire lines to the administrative
number of various positions. The purpose of this ar- telephone network. When such installations are com-
rangement is to permit the instantaneous transmission plete, a staff car within thirty or forty miles of an AA
of firing orders to all firing units. The schematic ar- region command post should be able to communicate
rangement of these circuits is shown in the accompany- with another staff car in any other AA region.
ing drawing. Supplementing the radio and telephone networks
To provide liaison between adjacent gun batteries may be a complete leased private-line system of tele-
and searchlight platoon command posts, separate cir- type communication. A net in each AA region should
cuits terminating in phones may be established. These link all regiments and similar units with the brigade 'or
are ringing circuits, and are manned only in case of region command post. These nets may be in turn con-
alert. nected through private lines to the AAA Command, so
Where possible, circuits are leased from commercial that all regions and regiments can be reached by tele-
telephone companies; a minimum amount of field wire type from central headquarters.
is used. The circuits should be the four-wire type, per- For the sake of secrecy, installations should be given
mitting the use of straight amplifiers rather than the code designations which can be easily memorized by the
complicated repeat amplifiers. These four-wire systems, operating personnel.
known as "hot-loops," permit one-way transmission, and It is believed that such a system of communications
terminate at field positions in field telephones. Some ought to work and put through intelligence on time.
commercial lines have developed an auxiliary unit This is said with full realization that AA information
which, when connected to our field phones, increases to a gun battery may be worthless if it is more than
their effectiveness for this hook-up. twenty seconds old.
SIGHT D'SPLACEMEN~
And Its Correction
By Captain Earle D. Button, C.A.C.
Firing at a bow-on target demands accurate gun
pointing. Because of small lateral probable error and
narrow danger space, a pointing error of only one mil
in direction will cause a 16-inch gun to be ineffective
when fired at a battleship bow-on, at a range of 16,000
yards. Consequently, any known error in lateral point-
ing greater than ~ mil or .03 degree must be considered
and steps taken to eliminate it. Sight displacement
alone mav cause errors far in excess of these maximum
values .•
Errors due to sight displacement will occur only in
the case of mobile artillery using a panoramic telescope
and aiming point (see fig. 1) in Case III pointing

Figure 2.-

on which the gun and carriage are traversed. Let the


small arrow (see fig. 2) represent the panoramic tele-
scope which is mounted above the pintle center and
pointed at the aiming point (AP). This is the position
for orientation in this particular case. Further assume
that the gun is pointing due north. To orient the sight.
merely point it at the aiming point and slip the sight
scale (see fig. 2) until it reads 180° (zero south) whicb
is the azimuth at which the gun is pointing. Now sup
pose it is desired to fire at an azimuth of 21 0°. First.
Figure I.-The M8 sight. turn the movable sight head to the left until the sight
scale reads 210°. (Notice that as the sight head is
(target not visible from the guns). To orient the sight turned to the left, azimuths increase on the scale.) Its
for this method of firing, the azimuth at which the gun line of sight is then in position and the gun is still
is pointed (found by boresighting, see Hvl 4-15, par. pointing due north. Now traverse gun and carriage In
176) is set on the azimuth scale of the telescope when the right until the line of sight is again directed at tht
the telescope is sighted at the aiming point. In order to aiming point, and the gun will be pointed at the desired
point the gun at the proper azimuth for firing, the azimuth, 210°. In this case there is no error in point
movable head of the sight is turned until its scale indi- ing because the sight is mounted directly above the-
cates the desired azimuth (taken from the display gun pivot (pintle center). After the sight has h:e~'
board); then without changing the sight, the gun and turned 30° to the left of the aiming point and untIl It
carriage are traversed until the sight is again pointed at reads 210°, the gun must be traversed the full 3~o
the aiming point. back to the right in order to put the line of sight agal?
Assume that the sight is mounted on the barrel of the on the aiming point. This points the gun at 210° a1J-
gun directly above the pivot, called the pintle center, muth. Notice that the line of sight is now parallel to.
19-+2 SIGHT DISPLACEi\IENT AND ITS CORRECTION

of the pintle center. The distance that the sight (actu-


:lIly the vertical axis of the sight) is mounted away from
the pintle center is called sight displacement. It is shown
as the distance PC-S in fig. 3.
The sight is at position S, (see fig. 4) for orienta-
tion. \Vith the sight thus displaced, it is oriented ex-
:lctly as before, in which position there is no error be-
cause the sight is made to read the azimuth of the bore.
But when the gun is traversed to any other azimuth.
an error is introduced. This is shown in the following
eX:lmple: The gun is sighted on the aiming point and
made to read the azimuth of the gun, which again is
1800• In this position of orientation, even though the
sight is displaced from the pintle center, there is no error
SIGHT since the sight indicates the azimuth at which the
gun is pointing when the sight is pointed at the aiming
point. For purposes of illustration, assume that the sight
head is turned to the left 300 so that its scale reads
0
210 and that the gun is then traversed right a full
,

300 until it is pointed at 2100• From the diagram (see


fig. 4), it can be seen that the line of sight is now
parallel to the line of sight during orientation. In other
Figure 3.- View illustrating sight displacement. PC is the words, S3T is parallel to S,-AP. This would be the case
pintle center and S is the axis of sight. if the aiming point were at infinity; but normally the
aiming point is some measurable distance from the gun.
and coincident with, the line of sight, when in the The result of this is that the line of sight, after tra-
orienting position. versing the gun until the line of sight is on the aiming
However, in order to permit its use by the gun point, is not parallel to the orienting line of sight. An
pointer, the sight is not mounted on the pintle center. error in pointing is the result. Fig. 4 shows the actual
Instead, it is mounted to one side and in front or rear and the desired positions of the sight, S" and Se, re-

G1
180. G

rr:
rh
.•~
'I{ 70.
<? G',t

I /,
, '/
I.. "/
i /,
T----------- _53 j /.~~
i.. 1/'
""
AP
./
x
30. //
.>-/
./
./
/'
~./
?

51-AP :Line of sight in orienting position


52-A P = Line of sight in new position
53- T = Line of sight parallel to 5.-AP
5,- M = Line of sight after turning sight head 30. to the left

Figure 4.-Actual and desired positions of the sight and the gun.
54 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October

( I)

T
!
II :/
: ---.......---....... I: /
: -........ 1

: ---.......---.......
il
AP
51
-1------~C
X P

PC - 52='PC - 5,: Actual sight displacement


52- X = Effective sight displacement

Figure 5.-Effective sight displacement.

spectively, with corresponding positons of the gun Gs Or since one degree = approximately 18 mils:
and G2. The error is the difference in azimuth between ESD X 57 X 18 ESD X 1,000
ex: (mils) = . d"
G2 and Gs or the angle G2-PC-GS' It can be proved dIstance AP-PC or Istance AP -PC
that the angle S2-AP-PC (marked oc in the diagram) The results obtained by the use of this formula are
is equal to the error in pointing, angle G2-PC-GS' within the necessary limits of accuracy. From this
In order to determine the size of the parallax angle formula it can be seen that for a given sight displace-
ex, a new element called effective sight displacement is
ment and aiming point distance, the parallax angle ( 0: )
used. Effective sight displacement (ESD) is shown in is directly proportional to the effective sight displace-
figs. 4 and 5, as the distance S2X, It is always the per- ment.
pendicular distance from the sight axis to a line joining The fact that a parallax angle exists does not necessar-
the aiming point and the pintle center. ily mean that a sight displacement error is present. I~is
Under the conditions of orientation illustrated in fig. true that when the aiming point is on a prolongatIOn
4, the error due to sight displacement is the parallax of the line joining the pintle center and the sight axis
angle ex. This angle can be found by using the re- in the orienting position, the error in pointing is equal
lation: to the parallax angle. But, if the aiming point is at
ESD right angles to the line joining the pintle center a~d
tanOC= A
distance PC to P the sight in the orienting position, the parallax angle III
This is not an exact solution, since the distance from the orienting position will be maximum, but the er:or
PC to AP is slightly greater than the distance AP-X is zero, because the sight is sighted on the aiming pOl~t
which should be used in the above relation. However, and indicates the actual azimuth of the bore. As thIs
the error thus caused is always negligible. fact is important it is emphasized.
In the field, the distance to the aiming point will The position of the sight is Sop,in the orienti.ng pos~-
normally be several hundred yards, while the actual tion (see fig. 6), and S1, S2' and Ss, are succeSSIvePOSI-
sight displacement is normally less than 1~ yards. tions of the sight as the gun is traversed right. T~e
The angle ex:, then, will always be a very small angle. effective sight displacement in the orienting positi0r: IS
The tangent of a small angle is approximately equal to zero, but as the piece is traversed right the effectl".e
:the angle in radians, and since a radian is about 57 sight displacement, the parallax angle (ex), and in thIS
degrees, the above relation can be rewritten: case, the error due to sight displacement, all increase.
ex (degrees) _ ESD Suppose, however, the aiming point is cho~en at
57 - distance AP-PC right angles to the line PC-SoP (see fig. 7). In thIS ~~se,
or the effective sight displacement in the orienting.posItI~n
ESD X 57 Sop is maximum and is equal to the actual SIght dIS-
ex (degrees) = distance AP-PC placement. But there is no error, since this is the
1942 SIGHT DISPLACEMENT AND ITS CORRECTION 55

AIMING POINT SELECTED ON THE PROLONGATION OF THE LINE


PINTLE CENTER-SIGHT (360. FIELD OF FIRE)

Figure 6.-

orienting position, and the sight is pointed at the aiming It has been shown that, the parallax angle at any posi-
point and reads the actual azimuth of the bore. As the tion of the sight is equal to the effective sight displace-
piece is traversed left, notice that the effective sight ment (ESD) at the position multiplied by 57 and
displacement (and therefore the parallax angle, cc) divided by the distance from the pintle center to the
decreases, but the error increases. This last statement aiming point. In other words:
maybe more apparent if it is remembered that in order
ESD1 X 57
to have zero error in any position of the gun and sight, cc ---------

the new line of sight must be parallel to the line of 1 distance AP-PC
sight in the orienting position. It is apparent from ESD2 X 57
cc ----------
figs.6 and 7 that as the piece is traversed away from the 2 distance AP-PC
orienting position, the line of sight continually diverges ESDop X 57
cc ----------
froma line parallel to the line of sight in the orienting op distance AP-PC
position. We can write for the error:
The size of the error at anyone position is therefore E C) - ESDop X 57 +
ESDp X 57
determined by the change in the parallax angle, and rror p - distance AP-PC - distance AP-PC
not by the parallax angle itself at the particular posi- errorp = error at present position of sight
tion. The change is always determined by comparing where ESDp = ESD ~n pr~se~t positi?~ of sig~t
the parallax angles at the given position and the {
ESDop = ESD m onentmg poSItIonof SIght
orienting position. We can therefore write the relation: E - (ESDop =!:: ESDp) 57
error = -+- op
CC1 CC
rrorp - distance AP-PC
where CC1 and op denote the parallax angles at the
CC

given position and the orienting position respectively. This is a general formula for use in :finding the
Notice that this expression says CC1 plus or minus ccop amount of sight displacement error at any particular,
(see :fig.7). Remember that the error is equal to the position of the sight under any particular condition of
change in the parallax angle. If we consider the error orientation and aiming-point location. Whether to use
in position S2' the change in the parallax angle is CC2 plus or minus in the above formula should be deter-
minus CCop. But if we consider the error at positon Sa, mined by inspection of a simple sketch. If the present
the change in parallax angle is O:aplus O:op.For the position of the sight and the orienting position of the
condition of orientation illustrated in :fig.6, O:opis zero, sight are on the same side of the line AP-PC, use the
and the error is then equal to the parallax angle at the minus sign. If the present position of the sight and the
particular position (0:1), minps zero (O:op), or Simply orienting position of the sight are on opposite sides of
This is a special case, however. the AP-PC line, use the plus sign.
56 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October

the situation. In speaking of the direction of the error,


we mean the location of the resultant splash with

lOP respect to the target, whether right or left. Assuming


that without the error the splash would be on the gun-
target line, we say that the error is left if the splash
,, falls to the left of the target, and right if the splash
falls to the right of the target. A very simple rule of
thumb says that if the present line of sight is to the left

\ of a line from the sight and parallel to the line of sight


in the orienting position, then the error is left. A right
error exists when the present line of sight is right of the
\ line parallel to the orienting line of sight. Referring to
figure 6, the direction of the errors at position Sl) S2, S3,
Sop is LEFT; while the error at S4 is RIGHT. The capital
letters Rand L are used to designate the direction of
error.
There are, of course, two considerations in the selec-
tion of an aiming point; direction and distance from the
battery. The direction depends upon the extent of the
field of fire of the guns. For armament having a 360°
field of fire, the aiming point should be selected along
the prolongation of the line joining the pinde center
and the sight when in the orienting position, as in
figure 6. But when the field of fire is 1800 or less
(particularly when 90° or less), select the aiming
point at right angles to the line joining the pintle center
and the sight in the orienting position, as in figure 7.
With the aiming point selected as in figure 6, the
change in effective sight displacement and therefore
the error, increases rather rapidly for about 45 to either
0

side of the orienting position. It will then continue to


increase, but much less rapidly, to 900 from the orient-
ing position, at which point the effective sight displace-
ment is maximum and equal to the actual sight displace-
ment. Continued traversing results in a decreasing of
the effective sight displacement, until it is again zero
when 1800 away from the orienting position. Note
that in this case the m!lximum error corresponds to an
effective sight displacement which is equal to the actual
sight displacement; and that for approximately 45 ° to
either side of the orienting position, the change in the
effective sight displacement is rather rapid.
Now, with the aiming point selected as in figure 7.
the change in the effective sight displacement, and
therefore the error, is not appreciable until the piece is
traversed about 45 to either side of the orienting posi-
0

tion. The error then increases rapidly, reaching the


value corresponding to the actual sight displacement
AP
90° on either side of the orienting position, and in-
AIMING POINT SELECTED AT creasing to twice this error 180° from the orienting po-
RIGHT .ANGLES TO PC - So sition. Note particularly that the maximum error cor-
(1800
OR LESS FIELD OF FIRE) responds to a displacement which is twice the actual
sight displacement, and that for approximately 45° to
Figure 7.-
either side of the orienting position the change in ef-
The above relation can be used to find the size of the fective sight displacement is not appreciable. For lim-
error. The direction of the error, that is, right or left, ited fields of fire (180° OJ less) select the aiming point
can be found from an inspection of a simple sketch of at right angles to the line PC-soP;and for all-around fire
1942 SIGHT DISPLACEMENT AND ITS CORRECTION 57
The effective sight displacement used must be the
maximum effective sight displacement possible for the
particular conditions of orientation, aiming point direc-
tion, and field of fire.

Illustrative example-I
An 8-inch railway gun is emplaced for 360 :fieldof
0

fire and is pointed at an azimuth of 160° for orienting.


The angle formed by the sight, pintle center, and
muzzle is 68 ° to the left, and the sight displacement
is 53.85 inche5.
Q. In what- direction (or at what azimuth) should
So the aiming point be located?
1.496 A. The first step is to draw a simple sketch of the
situation, putting in all the known elements. Such a
sketch is shown in figure 8. First draw the circle (with
PC as the center) to represent the path of the sight as
the gun is traversed through 360°. Then put in the
line PC-Go (with a cap on the end to represent the
muzzle) at an azimuth of 160° (from south). This
line then represents the gun in the orienting position.
The angle G-PC-So is given as 68° to the left, so put
Figure 8.-
in the sight So so that PC-So is 68 ° to the left of the
(360°) select the aiming point on the prolongation of gun barrel. So is then the orienting position of the
the PC-Sopline. sight. Since the gun is pointed at 160 and the sight is
0

The distance to the aiming point is easily determined. to the left 68 ° , the azimuth of the line PC-So is 160 -
Errors due to sight displacement should not exceed 68, or 92°. Because the field of fire is 360°, the aiming
0.03 degree or 0.5 mils. Knowing the maximum effect- point should be selected in prolongation of the line
ive sight displacement obtainable, the minimum dis- PC-S 0. Therefore, locate the aiming point at an azi-
tance to the aiming point is determined from the re- muth of about 92° from the gun, say between 87°
lation: and 97°.
Error = ESD X 57 Q. What is the minimum distance to the aiming
distance AP-PC point so that the errors will be less than .03 degree?
Transposing: A. Assume the aiming point is in prolongation of
ESD X 57 the line PC-So. Therefore, extend PC-So on the sketch
Distance AP-PC = 0 .03 (d egrees)
as in figure 9. Locate AP. To find the distance to the
ESD X 1,000 aiming point, find the maximum effective sight dis-
0.5 (mils) placement and substitute in the formula:

--- -- --- ---


-- --- --- ---
--- -- --- ---
A P ---- ---

Figure 9.-
58 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-Octoher

NI ~~I
_----- I',

--- --- --- --- J


J
....
"

--- --- I ........

--- --- ---


J ....
I ........
J ....
AP

Figure 10.

. A (ESDp + ESDop) 57 A I55mm gun is equipped with a panoramic sight,


D lstance P = .03 M8, which is 21 inches to the left of, and 11 inches to
the rear of the pintle center. The left limit of the field
The maximum ESDp is equal to the actual sight dis- of fire is 240.00° and the right limit is 300.00°.
placement in this case, or 53.85 inches. Since the dis- Q. Where should the aiming point be located, as-
tance AP is desired in yards, convert ESD to yards, suming there is a datum point at azimuth 270.00 ? 0

thus 53.85 inches +36 = 1.496 yards.


A. Figure II shows the situation.
Substituting:
AP-PC = 1.49~~ 57 (ESDop = 0)
Go
AP-PC = 2,842 or 2,850 yards
Q. If the AP is only 1,000 yards away instead of
2,850 yards, what is the sight displacement error when
the sight is turned until it reads 200.00° and the gun
then traversed until the line of sight is again on the
~iming point?
A. Figure 10 is a simple sketch of the situation. In REFERENCE LINE
.order to be properly oriented, the sight was made to
read the azimuth of the bore when the sight was on the
aiming point. This reading was 160 0.In order to read
200° , the sight head is turned to the left 40° until the
line of Sight is So-M. The gun is traversed right until
the line of sight is again on the aiming point. The
gun is now at G1 and the sight at Sl' The effective sight
displacement at this position of the sight must be de-
termined. In the triangle PC-S1-D, PC-S1 is the
actual sight displacement (1.496 yards) and Sl-D is the
effective sight displacement. The angle Sl-PC-D is
assumed to be 40°. Then:
ESD = Sl - PC X sin 40°
= 1.496 X .6428
= 0.962 yards
The error then:
ESD X 57 .962X 57
Error = AP-PC 1,000 = 0.055°
The error is LEFT because the line of sight is to the left
AP
.of Sl-Nl which is drawn parallel to the line of sight in
the orienting position. Figure 11.-
1942 SIGHT DISPLACEMENT AND ITS CORRECTION 59

r
t:----~------
2,"

PC

J
-
I
I
- I

L'
Figure lla.-

The angle Go-PC-So, shown as angle A, is = 90° + B,


and:
11
tan B = 21 = .52380
B = 27.65°
PC-S = II/sinE. Angle A = 90 + B = 90+ 27.65 =
1l7.65°
lljsin 27.65° = 11/.46407 = 23.7 inches = .658 yds.
Azimuth PC-So = 270.00° - 1l7.65° = 152.35°
Azimuth to aiming point = 152.35° - 90° = 62.35°
The aiming point should be located within a few
degrees of this azimuth, let us say between 57° and 67°.
Since the orienting azimuth (270°) is in the center
of the field of fire, the effective sight displacement at
the right limit of the field of fire is equal to the effect-
ive sight displacement at the left limit, and at either
limit the change in effective sight displacement is
maximum. (See figure 12.) Thus:
ESDop = actual sight displacement = .658 yards
To find ESD, use triangle PC-~i~D.
The angle D-PC-S1 = 90° -30° = 60°.
Then SID = .658 sin 60°
= .658 X .86603
= .570 yards
Substituting in the general formula:
(ESDop -+ ESDp) 57 ..
AP-PC = .03 ' and usmg the mmus
sign because So and S1 are on the same side of the line
AP-PC, we have
AP PC - (.658.- .570) 57 _ .088 X 57 _
- - .03 .03 - 167, or
170 yards minimum distance to aiming point, for errors AP
less than .03 degree. Figure12.-
SENDING ADOLF A WIRE
BRITISH Ar\ ROCKETS SNARE S.TUKAS

Up she goes! The rocket is aimed


to intercept the dive bomber's path .

.. British merchant seamen


attach wires to a rocket.

+--
The parachute slows
the wire's descent; the
wi re -moiis the
Stuka's aim -
or the Stuka.

~
"'hat goes up must come
down. This one will be sal-
vaged; it's dive-bomber
poison that can be used for
another dose.
The German Soldier*
EDITOR'S NOTE: Any fighting machine, in the last After the German soldier has taken the oath and has
analysis, is as good as its front and rear ranks. The been incorporated into his respective company or bat-
manner of men that constitute these remks and the tery, his battery commander reminds him frequently
nature of their training mold the character and about the duties of the soldier, which the German
ability of their Army. This article gives em intimate command expressed in eight articles promulgated
sidelight on the kind of soldier Americcm forces may originally in 1934 by Field Marshal Von Hindenburg,
meet on the European battlefront. then President of the German Reich. In effect, these
It is just as important in combat to know your enemy articles state that the highest honor a young man may
as it is to know yourself. Ne:ver belittle the ability attain is to serve in the army, which means serving his
of your emtagonist, for ostrich mentality only invites country. By learning how to make decisions, to become
disaster. Know your enemy and be forewarned. Give hardened and tough, to render complete obedience, he
everyone his due whether he be devil or saint. Study will gain the reward of serving his country in times of
his weakness that you may lead up to it. Acknowl- need.
edge his strength and finesse through if you ccmnot Besides the explanation of these articles the soldier is
better it. told over and over again the definition of honor, loyalty,
courage, obedience, and comradeship. Every German,
After the last war, Germany founded an armed force, even if poorly educated, has heard or read about Fred-
limited to 100,000 men, in accordance with the pro- erick the Great, the famous Prussian King, who fought
visions of the Treaty of Versailles. This Reichswehr Austria for seven years, from about 1756 to about 1763,
(Reich means Realm or State, Weh:r; means armed and finally broke the power of the House of Habsburg,
force) was comprised of volunteers who had to sign up which used to rule over most of Southern Germany.
for a period of twelve years. Only men with perfect The battery commander quotes this historic idol of
health were selected, and they had to st~y on probation Prussian militarism, who once said: "It is not necessary
for one year before they became full-Hedged members for me to live, b~t it is of highest importance to do my
of the organization. Therefore, in 1935 when Germany duty. "
again introduced compulsory military service it had Furthermore the German soldier learns that obedi-
excellent noncom material for an army of about 800,000 ence is the foundation of the army. Disobedience, there-
men. Every one of these noncoms was a professional fore, \"ill be punished severely.
soldier with at least six to twelve years of service to his I remember a little incident which happened one
credit, who looked upon war as a science. day while my company was out in the field. We had our
The lack of officers was solved by recalling at once riHesstacked and our sidearms laid out in a straight line.
many World War officers,most of whom had been idle Suddenly my corporal told me to straighten out my
during the period of the Republic and were only too canteen which was attached to my sidearms belt. I
glad to have a regular income again. During the last looked down, but couldn't see anything wrong with it.
war many students who had not yet finished college He reminded me three times before I told him that I
went to the front, and a large proportion of these became couldn't find anything wrong. Only too late I realized
officers. Some of them came back to find an entirely I was talking while at attention. Later I had to report to
different Germany. Revolution raged all over the coun- my sergeant. My punishment was supposed to be three
try, with the dark days of the inHation still to come. days in the guard house, but I got away with being
Jobs were scarce and those who adjusted themselves to confined to quarters 'over the week-end. This still meant
the new conditions, and were lucky enough to find a lot to me, since these week-ends were the only time
work, made just enough to pay for their room and we were allowed to leave the post. Later during the
board. Only a very few were able to go back to their day, my captain called me in and I learned that he and
studies and complete their education. my sergeant had witnessed the incident. There was
The new compulsory service was meant for every- nothing wrong \\'ith my display, but I should have kept
body, rich or poor, young or middle aged. Exemption my mouth shut while at attention, especially since the
was hardly known. Only men highly necessary for the captain was about to intervene on my behalf.
fast developing war industries, or those incurably sick I would like to point out the difference between su-
were exempted. Dependency was no excuse, since the periors in the new army and those in the old imperial
Government took care of the dependents. armv. The enlisted man isn't kicked around anvrnore
by his noncoms or officers. However, superiors d~mand
*By a corporal in a Coast Artillery organization. The corporal's
?ame is withheld by request, since members of ,his family still live complete obedience. The relationship between men
IU Germany. This article was adapted from a lecture delivered bv and superiors is that of comradeship and mutual under-
the soldier to the personnel of his post based on his own service in
,he German army. standing (my corporal was one of the few exceptions).
62 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-octobt>l
The soldier has the right to complain, if he feels he has German soldiers to survive those hardships and pun-
been done a \vrong. But he may do so only after twelve ishments they have received during the past year while
hours have elapsed from the time of the event. This fighting in the Libyan desert and in Russia.
way the complainant is given time to think things over, The word "impossible" does not exist in the German
before he puts in his complaint. Every soldier is ex- soldiers' dictionary.
pected to have enough common sense to decide between Field Marshal Rommel led his attack on T obruk on
a minor insult caused by the use of an improper word a hot summer day, when many thought it was impos-
or being cursed during a time of intensive training, and sible to fight a large desert battle at that time of the year.
really serious accusations. Every soldier is always reminded that Germany's p0-
If he still decides to push his charges and it is proven tential enemies are tough and well equipped, and a
later on that his story is founded on untrue statements, hard fighting group of soldiers. The only way to win
he will be punished severely. I experienced the follow- glory is to get tougher and harder than they are.
ing incident which shows how the superior will help While I was serving in the German Army a few
the enlisted man to receive just treatment in cases years ago, we had reveille about 5: 30 A.M. By seven we
where a complaint is impossible. were ready to march off to our training ground. Our
One evening I had to get supper rations for my room- rooms had been cleaned and the doors locked, to be
mates. The German soldier receives one warm meal a opened only after we got back. As I was serving with
day, usually around noon, and rations for breakfast and the Engineers our training was primarily technical.
supper have to be drawn by each squad every other day. However, since we were equipped with rifles, we re-
All the kitchen supplies for these meals is hot coffee. ceived at least four afternoons or mornings each week
When I asked for our evening rations the corporal in of thorough infantry training. For a short time we had
charge of the small commissary gave me, besides other close order drill, but soon we practiced skirmishes,
food, some bad eggs. I refused to take them. He be- learned the use of concealment, built foxholes, infan-
came angry, told me to get out, and claimed he didn't try positions, etc. We usually had one rest period dur-
have any better ones. I knew he was in a hurry to ing the morning to eat the lunch that each man had
dose up that night. I was well aware my roommates brought along.
would demand that I make a complaint the following Around noon we returned to our barracks to have
day. However, I knew I could never prove that there our one warm meal. Our daily duties lasted until 6:00
were not better eggs in stock. A complaint was there- P.M. From then on we were free until the next morn-
fore out of the question. We all agreed to get even ing, but at least two hours every evening we were
somehow. As a rule one of our captains (we had two, occupied with the cleaning of our equipment. For
a battery commander and an executive officer), would instance we had to shine two pairs of footgear every
visit our room around supper time for a routine inspec- night since in the morning we wore boots and in the
tion. We waited with our supper, which we always afternoons we had to change to high top shoes. This
took in our room, until the captain showed up. He, of course helped to keep our feet in good shape. Taps
of course, showed interest in what we were eating and was at 9: 00 and by that time everyone was usually
noticed the bad eggs. He inquired as to when we re- ready to turn in. At that hour the C.Q. (noncom of
ceived them, and I told him the whole story. The next the day who was a line sergeant or higher) used to
day the corporal was broken to private and put into check the beds and inspect everybody's locker, where
solitary confinement for fourteen days on bread and the clothing was at all times displayed in uniform man-
water. ner. This made other inspections unnecessary.
The German soldier is not entitled to any leaves or There were men of all trades and professions in our
furloughs during the first twelve months he is in in the company as well as those who had been out of work
service. Whenever the battery commander deems him for a long time, but it did not take long until every
worthy of a pass he has the authority to grant him one. man had become used to this regular way of living.
When the soldier goes on leave over the' week-end he Men who had been undernourished gained weight, in
always is reminded to behave himself and not to get spite of getting only one hot meal a day. Of course the
drunk while in public. If he should break those rules variety of the food was poor (we had stew four times a
he will receive harsh punishment. I don't remember week), but the quality must have been good. Usually
ever having seen a drunken soldier on the streets at on Saturday mornings we went out for a hike with full
any time. pack (weighing about fifty pounds). We marched be-
So far I have mentioned only things the German tween ten and fifteen miles at about four miles per hour.
soldier learns during the very first few days after he has On our way back our captain usually set the pace up to
been put into a uniform. Now I would like to tell you about six miles for the last hour. At this point our
something about his daily routine, as far as his duties officer would dismount (a captain rates a horse for his
are concerned. Even the very soft men soon become personal use) and march back with us. The idea, of
strong and tough from the training they receive. You course, was to harden us up, and we always tried to do
will therefore understand how it was possible for the our best, since the sooner we got back to camp the
1942 .THE GERMAN SOLDIER 63
sooner we were able to start out on the long awaited The American public still doesn't know or quite un-
week-end leave. derstand the meaning and the importance of these two
Before we received our passes, however, the company different organizations.
had to line up in the company street and wait for the In those days there existed about thirty-three political
first sergeant to appear. He was not only our first ser- parties in Germany, of which around twenty-three were
geant, but also the highest rated noncommissioned represented by one or more members in the State Senate
officer, comparable with the master sergeant of the and German Reichstag (Congress). The four most im-
United States Army. Besides this he was also the ser- portant of these parties were the Social Democrats, the
geant major. He was the right hand of the commanding Communists, the German Nationals and the Zentrum
officerand had full authority over the enlisted men. He (Catholic Political party). Just before elections, these
could not only be identified by the insignia he wore different groups would hold rallies, and march through
on his shoulder straps, but also by his privilege of keep- the streets in order to advertise their ideas and gain new
ing one button of his service blouse open for the pur- members.
pose of keeping a memo book, just inside his coat, It was not earlier than 1930 when the majority of the
which everybody could see protruding. Usually Satur- German people first heard about the fast growing
day was the only time the enlisted men would see him, National-Socialist German Labor Party (which is called
when they were waiting to get their pass. The line in this country The Nazi Party), for it was about then
sergeant would read off to him the list of names of the that this young party furnished quite a number of rep-
men who had applied for week-end leave, but before resentatives for the Prussian Congress. Already, a num-
he would grant permission for them to have leave he ber of years before 1930, Hitler had founded the S.A.
would refer to his memo book to see if they had broken (Brown Shirts). S.A. is the abbreviation for the Ger-
any rules or regulations during the past week. man word for Storm Trooper. The young party mem-
Another time we had to line up and come into close bers who made up this group were Hitler's political
contact with our first sergeant was on pay days. In army, who marched in the streets, and whose main
those days the G~rman. private received twenty-five purpose was to break up rallies of the opposing parties.
cents a day. Every tenth day we were paid two and That happened quite often when the Brown Shirts
one-half dollars or the German equivalent, five marks. would come in contact with members of the Commun-'
Five marks were made in the form of a coin, and the ist or Socialist parties while marching through the
nrst sergeant would walk down the line with a small streets. Usually these meetings would end in bloody
sackin his hand and give each soldier one coin, making clashes. I can still remember the "Blood Sunday" when
paying off very simple. This of course could be done in seven Nazis and three Communists were left dead in
this manner because the German soldier had to clean the streets after one of these clashes. Right after Hitler
and wash all of his own clothing and equipment, and came into power, four Communists were executed for
he had no deductions coming out of his small pay. these killings.
As soon as we finished some dry firing practiCe with The Black Shirts, or the S.S. (the German abbrevia-
our rifles, we went about twice a week to the rifle range, tion for Safety Troops), originally were a very small
for target practice. In contrast to the usual rough treat- force, and its main purpose was to act as bodyguards for
ment we received, out on the firing range our noncoms Hitler and his closest associates. When the Brown
had special instructions from the battery commander Shirts became stronger in numbers after 1930, Hitler
to handle us with gloves. No shouting or harsh talk made a clever move on the advice of his friend and
was permitted while we were waiting for our turn to associate-Himmler. The Black Shirts were greatly
fire. We were allowed to smoke, which usually was reinforced in order to prevent possible uprising by the
permitted only during mealtimes and after retreat. Han- Brown Shirts who were eager to come into power as
<lIingthe men in this way the commanding officer got soon as possible. The famous Purge of 1934 proved
exactly what he was interested in-more or less excellent only too well how important it was for Hitler to have
results when we fired for record. such a strong personal force, for it was the Black Shirts
I have tried to give a picture of the German soldier, who crushed the attempt of the Storm Troop Leaders
about what he is told, taught, and how he is changed to seiZE:power in Germany. From then on Himmler
from a civilian into a soldier, within the shortest time became Commander-in-Chief of the Black Shirts, who
possible, Now I would like to tell something, about later on established the secret police. Besides acting as
his morale at the time I was wearing the German uni- a police force, members of this troop were military
form. trained to become special task forces not connected with
When I was serving shortly after the introduction of the German Army, and were sent to Spain in 1936 as
the compulsory military service in Germany, Hitler shock or elite troops, in order to help General Franco
had been in power for about three and one-half years. to final victory.
The army always used to favor the right or national Today the Black Shirts are doing police duties in the
wing of the government, but did not care for the brown occupied countries, and by doing so they are relieving
;andblack clad troops of Hitler. the German soldier for duty on the front lines. Of
64 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October

course there were times when the Black and Brown \\'hen Germany invaded Poland in September of
Shirt leaders were secretly fighting each other out of 1939 it had already a vast and well trained army, of
pure jealousy, but since Hitler would favor neither which the youngest soldier had had at least one full year
group and was able to smooth out their difficulties he of hard training. They were not only trained to become
was able to avoid any open fights between them. Only a hard hitting force, but they also had learned to take
recently I learned that the Brown Shirts have been dis- punishment. They had been told again and again about
solved. their real enemies, Russia, England and France. There
The German Army didn't care much for these two was never any doubt in their mind that the French sol-
groups, seeing in them naturally a menace to its posi- dier was a tough and courageous fighter, well trained
tion. and with excellent equipment. However, they also
Quite a few of the unemployed who entered the knew that their leaders did not fail to give them equip-
service with me used to belong to the Communist and ment just as good, maybe better and more modern.
Democrat parties. Of course these parties had become The French Army was overrun within a short time.
illegal, but many of the former members had not However, this does not prove the contrary of what I
climbed as yet on the band-wagon of the N.S.D.A.P. have just stated. Most of us have learned by now the
(National Socialists German Labor Party). As a matter true reasons for the tragedy of France.
of fact these men did not keep their feelings secret after Once the German war machine had started rolling.
they found out how independent the army still was in all efforts to stop it at the conference table would have
those days. Some of the recruits used to be leaders of been futile. As history proves, only a better army, com-
the S.A. (Brown Shirts) and the S.S. (Black Shirts), prised of soldiers of unexcelled fighting spirit, with
but there was a law in effect that every member of the more and better equipment, and with more butter to
armed forces had to give up his membership in either feed its men, will stop it in due time. Germany's
of these organizations. Our sergeants who were brought slogan during recent years has been "guns instead of
up in the independent spirit of the Reichswehr, which butter." But it was proven in the last war that unless
once swore to defend the republic, put those fellows a soldier was well fed it didn't matter how many guns
on more extra details than other soldiers. The former he had to fight with. It is a well known fact that Ger-
Socialists and Communists liked this exceedingly for many has always blamed the lack of food as one of the
in those days they still were possessed of the idea that reasons for losing the war of 1914-1918.
the Army eventually would get rid of Hitler and his I believe we, ourselves, are all fully convinced that
gang. Besides that, many of them received better food the United States armed forces will furnish this super
and clothing than they had been getting for several army within the shortest time possible, and that it will
years. Naturally the morale was quite high. then gain final victory over the Axis forces.

Dustproof cover for the 40mm antiaircraft gun, being


developed by the Ordnance Department. Zipper-type
fasteners aid in forming a tight-fitting cover, easy to put
on and take off. Photo from .!rmy Ordnonre
By Major C. H. Treat
When the Camera Fails Coast Artillery Corps

EDITOR'S No'I'E: The method outlined. will give good rake readings could be plotted directly above or below
results if the deviation of the unrecfJtded splash ap-the corresponding TVS plot.Using thissecond scale the
proximates the average deviations of the recorded range rake readings were then plotted above the corre-
splashes. sponding TVS plots and a Best Representative Line was
In analyzing seacoast targetpracticesitisoften neces- drawn through these points. Since the TVS line was
sary to determine the angle "target-vessel-splash"for straight,the range rake line should be straight.Its lo-
one or more splashes that the camera failed to record. cation is a matter of judgment. In this example range
A graphical method of obtaining these angles from the rake readings for shots number 2 and 14 were disre-
range rake readings is illustratedbelow. garded though they did cause me to check the corre-
Assume that the lastthree columns of a Tug Officer's sponding TVS angles with great care.
Report (Form 20) were as follows (length of towline Having established a Best Representative Line for
1,680 yards): the range rake readings, the range rake reading for
Shot Range Shot Range shot number three was plotted on this line and a vertical
No. TVS Yards Rake No. TVS Yards Rake
5.8 + 170 115 line drawn down to intersect the TVS line. Opposite
1 8 1.6 47 20
2 2.5 + 73 230 thisintersection the angle TVS was read as 9.7 degrees.
9 1.0 + 29 35 With a towline of 1,680 yards (such a towline was
3 205 10 1.6 - 47 40
actually used) this angle represents a "camera devia-
4 9.9 + 289 230 11 5.4 - 158 120
tion" of 283 yards. The correct figure for this deviation
5 9.6 + 280 200 12 4.5 - 132 100
from the camera record was 272 yards.
6 5.6 + 164 120 13 2.4 - 70 60
7 2.8 + 82 The limitations of the range rake are clearly demon-
70 14 13.4 - 389 185
stratedby such a plot,but, unless the range rake reading
On the accompanying drawing, the TVS Line was for the splash desired was taken on a richochet splash
drawn at any convenient angle and the known values (probably true for shot number 2) or on a white cap
of the TVS angles were plotted on the line without re- (probably true for shot number 14) the resulting angle
gard to sign, using a convenient scale,as the one shown TVS will be a reasonable approximation of the true
at the left.Each value thus plotted was labeled with its angle. It will certainly be more accurat,ethan the angle
splash number. Anothetvertical scale was then assumed as usually obtained by mere conversion of the range
(at right of figure) so that the greatest and leastrange rake reading in mils to degrees.

14 /~8

13 Y::~2 60

12
/",/V 24 o

II
0

2
0
4
~
/ 22o
Range Rake /'
10 Shot No 3 (205)Y ~ 20 o
~£! --- --- --- -- --- --- -- --- --
9
l'£.S N~ ~= 9:E~
T~ /' 5 0
I 180
./

8 / V 160

7
/~
/,., " 14o
/~-l'"

6 ~t/
~I>
12o

5 ~~
0<:> e
«,0
/'
;,rr
II
10o
~o<
4 ..~«,9 ~ 12 80

3 ~/ 60
/7

2 / :;tr
...2 40

~ t/
~
I 20

~ '/ /9
....
Railway Machine Shop Cars -
By Major Franklin W. Reese, Infantry
Two long railroad cars of unusual design, the cul- placed in service by the army-are self contained units
mination of three years of experiments by U. S. Army housing their own power plants, thousands of precision
Ordnance Department experts and the best brains of the instruments, tools, micrometers, a large milling machine,
American machine tool industrv, were recentlv shunted shaper, complete welding and blacksmith units,
upon a Fort Monroe railway siding. / grinders, drill presses, lathes, fifty-ton jacks, and just
\\Then the seals on the cars were broken by the com- about everything else needed to repair and service any-
mander of the local Ordnance company to which the thing from a .45 calibre automatic pistol to the big
cars were consigned, it was disclosed that Uncle Sam's coast defense guns that guard the shoreline against
Army had pulled another one out of the hat and estab- enemy invasion.
lished undisputed leadership in one more field. Although primarily designed to maintain and senrice
These railway machine shop cars-first of their kind rnihvay artillery, these rolling machine shops are Com-

The interior of the car is slightly over seventy feet and contains precIsiOn equipment and
machinery enough to service anything from a .45 calibre pistol to huge coast defense guns.
-Photo by Sergeant Charles T. Dockartv
19-f2 RAIL \\lAY 1\ lACHINE SHOP CARS 67

The new shop car. -Photo by Sergeant Charles T. Dockarty

pletely adaptable to quick change-overs permIttmg capacity of 15KW and the other a capacity of 5KW.
handling of any type weapon used by the army. Compactly arranged in the same section are a large
The cars can be dispatched to any coastal or inland welding outfit and an air compressor. Tanks for gas,
point where railway artillery is used. They constitute an water and other fuel are built into the top of the cars.
important addition to the nation's coastal defense be- Ordnance officers disclosed that the two cars were
cause of their wide versatility in the field of repair of assembled at the Raritan arsenal plant and that con-
weapons. stant deviations from original plans of the Ordnance
Each car is slightly more than seventy-four feet over- Department were necessitated as new information
all and weighs in excess of fifty tons. Construction de- flowed in from far flung battlefields where railway and
tails are withheld as military secrets. In one end of the other heavy artillery was playing a major part in bitter
cars are housed two gas driven generators, one having a conflict.
JUNGLE WARFARE Part Three (Condensed from Field Manual 31-20)
Since the jungle hghter hnds his observation and by his aviation, the commander must dehnitely locate
helds of hre quite limited by dense and rank growth, he the targets for his airmen. One way of doing this is by
must rely in the main on short-range weapons that he marking the location of his own troops by pyrotechnics,
can manhandle over difficult terrain and keep sup- panels, or other visual means and then giving by radio
plied with ammunition. Our peacetime tropical training the bearing and distance of the target.
experience and the lessons of the present war have Jungle hghting is mainly in the hands of the infantry-
taught us that the only reliable ground transportation man and it usually means savage, close-in hghting. He
for either weapons or ammunition in a jungle is the cannot expect much support from other arms, for this
soldier himself. He may perhaps be supplemented by will often be impracticable or impossible. He must rely
carrying parties, or pack animals. But rarely if ever does on himself and his own weapons.
the soldier in the jungle hnd roads suitable for other As he studies his terrain the leader should decide
kinds of transportation. just which of his different organic infantry weapons he
He must rely chieRy on his riRe, automatic riRe, car- can use in each part of the area of operations. This study
bine, pistol, submachine gun, bayonet, hand grenade, and the mission he has will dictate the organization of
and machete. The machete, the indispensable tool of the task forces he needs in order to give them maximum
the jungle soldier, is also an excellent weapon in a mobility and hghting effectiveness.
hand-to-hand hght. He will usually hnd that mechanized units cannot be
The light machine gun and the 60mm mortar, used except on roads, fairly dry trails, and in savannas.
though somewhat less maneuverable and less suited to Horse cavalry will usually be conhned to trails and
instant use, are also indispensable. Their ammunition open areas but small cavalry detachments may be useful
is difficult to transport, but that is true of virtually every- for reconnaissance. In the rainy season of jungle areas,
thing used in the jungle. Where water transport or however, even small cavalry units so chum up the
plenty of pack animals can be used, the 81mm mortar trails as to bog down any troops-foot or mounted-that
and the heavy machine gun are valuable, both because follow. Sometimes trails, streambeds, or roads can be
of their hre power and because they can be manhandled used by cavalry for surprise Ranking or enveloping at-
for short distances. tacks. Native ponies are usually the most suitable
All other types of weapons have a more limited use mounts for cavalry in the jungle, partly because they
because they are difficult to transport, supply, and em- eat much less and are used to the feed obtainable lo-
place, and because their effectiveness is restricted by cally,
the jungle growth. This is especially true of held artil- Artillery also has its troubles in the jungle. Poor
lery guns. Although pack howitzers are somewhat more trails usually keep mechanized, motorized, or even
suitable for jungle use, they too have their limitations- animal-drawn guns from going along with jungle col-
bulk and difficulty of ammunition supply. The density umns. Pack artillery is up against the same marching
of the jungle almost always limits artillery hre to short difficulties as horse cavalry. Also, it is seldom that any-
ranges and ground observation is usually impossible thing but direct hre can be used and the effective area
and air observation extremely limited. But in some of burst is limited by the growth. But if it is expected
jungle regions the hghter will hnd savannas Copen to do much hghting in clearings, along river banks,
plains) where jungle growth may not be dense or may or on beaches, then pack artillery will be useful-if
be lacking, and also villages and towns. In these areas it can be gotten through. Both animal-drawn and mo-
and against the enemy in villages and towns he can torized artillery may be used if the roads or trails are
hnd real use for artillery and other supporting ground in good shape.
weapons. Hence, in preparing for jungle hghting a The ratio of the different types of artillery ammu-
leader ought hrst to study carefully the lay of the land nition carried should be modihed to meet the conditions
in his probable area of operations. Not only will this expected. Although caliber 75 shell is not economical
help him materially in determining suitable weapons for hring persistent chemicals and smoke in open ter-
for his forces but it will also virtuallv tell him what rain where heavier guns can be readily moved, its use
armament he needs. ' is justified in the jungle where no bigger guns can go.
Combat aviation may substitute for artillery and Moreover, persistent chemicals and smokes dissipate
mortars in dense jungle, even though observation from far more slowly in the jungle than in the open.
the air is limited and difficult. To give a measure of The short ranges, and the general restriction of tar-
safety to his ground troops and insure efficient \york aets
~
to those alono-relatively
0 I
narrow trails and stream-
Filipino troops at work clearing a trail through the jungle on Bataan.

beds, will make battery or platoon artillery fire unusual. usefulness, but it can sometimes identify and report the
Each gun section usually forms a team with a small in- location of friendly columns or detachments and ad-
fantry group. just fire for artillery. Heavy bombers find few favorable
Chemical troops will usually find that only pack targets. But medium and light bombers give jungle
units will be practicable and that these will have the fighters their best substitute for artillery support. Here
same limitations as pack artillery, except that chemical the infantryman's main problem is to precisely describe
mortar ammunition is lighter, hence fewer animals are to the airman the targets on which his bombs are
nceded. needed. More often than not, available maps are inac-
The ratio of smoke and of persistent to non-persistent curate-or there won't be any. This means that the
chemicals for jungle use is based, as in more open ter- air-ground team must work out a method for designat-
rain, on whether the mission is offensive or defensive. ing target, say smoke shells fired from mortars upon
Incendiaries are useless except in the dry season and the targets.
then only in sparse areas where the sun penetrates and \Vhen conditions are suitable for them, parachute
dries out the undergrowth. Ordinarily the bulk of troops can be used to reinforce jungle columns or seize
chemical ammunition to be used consists of chemical and hold critical ground in advance of those columns.
mines and smokepots placed by hand. \Vhen mines or BeFore kQinning a tropical iunole
o • i:'
ex))edition the com-
cylinders are on hand, barriers of persistent chemicals mander should hire natives as guides, carriers, scouts,
may be placed along paths and trails, and across vital and auxiliaries. vVhen his mission is to protect the
areas. In damp weather and in dense growth, persistent country against invasion, he can usually count on the
chemicals may stay effective for as long as two months, help of the local authorities. Guides whose loyalty and
and nonpersistent chemicals will also last longer than integrity are unquestioned should be carefully selected
in other climates. and hired before the operations begin.
There should be engineer troops with every jungle Carriers and scouts should also be hired beforehand.
cxpedition. Their chief jobs, of course, are bridging, From among these it will be possible to pick out suit-
and preparing obstacles and demolitions (or clearing able men to form the nucleus of an organized force of
them away), trail cutting and maintenance, water puri- native troops which will be of the greatest help in any
fication, and siting small defensive works. \Vith only operation in strange country. Such men are invaluable
pack transport usually available, engineer supplies must for scouting, raiding, and harassing the enemy com-
often be limited to explosives and tools. But the jungle munications. Their familiarity with the region and
itself will furnish the material for many jobs. their knowledge of the people and the langua1Ze will
i\lechanized or armored units have little fighting more than offset their limited training. And alliance
value in the thick jungle itself, but they can be effec- with native troops strengthens our solidarity against
tively used on savannas or other open areas and against a common enemy.
villages.
MARCHES AND CAMPS
Antiaircraft artillery is ordinarily ineffectual owing
to the density of the growth and the difficulty of mov- l\ len must be hardened and conditioned for jungle
ing the guns. For antiaircraft protection the troops will warfare by marches and exercises through jungle coun-
have to rely on concealment, and on weapons suitable try. Since the going is tough and units will often march
for use against low-Hying airplanes. in single file over steep, narrow, and often muddy
Air force operations are also difficult in and over trails, it can be seen that both men and animals must
jungle areas. Its observation aviation has only limited be thoroughly accustomed to such campaigning. More-
70 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-october
over, they must be well hardened to packing full loads route picked out. This provides landmarks which the
along bad trails. main construction party can easily follow.
All leaders must keep a close eye on clothing, equip- The main party should be generally divided into
ment, packs, saddles, and leather. Leather wears rapidly four groups: the trail-breaking group, the trail-clearing
in the jungle, especially shoes. And if leather gear is group, the construction group, and the mess-and-supply
old or worn it should be r~placed before starting on a group.
long march or on a period of extended jungle service. The trail-breaking group cuts and clears all light un-
The leader must prepare the details of his march be- derbrush with machetes and opens the reconnaissance
forehand, bearing in mind the size of his unit, the ca- party's trail. The trail-clearing group, using heavier
pacity and number of trails, the distance to go, the tools (axes, saws, and machetes), cuts and clears the
season, and the methods of supply and evacuation. He heavier jungle growth. The construction group builds
should try to move by daylight, for concealment and bridges, corduroys the trail, and makes earth cuts and
cover are ample and it is easier by day to avoid ambush. fills. The mess-and-supply group, of course, feeds and
Night movements in the jungle are extremely difficult. supplies the party. The speed with which the trail can
As a rule, there are no parallel trails and time and be constructed varies with the size of the party, the
men cannot be afforded to cut new trails for a long width of the trail, and the density of the jungle. Often
march. Columns usually march in single file, with re- a usable trail for foot and pack-animal elements can be
duced distances, and on a time schedule. Animals made by machete parties alone.
should not be sent ahead of foot troops, especially on During actual fighting it may often be necessary to
muddy trails. cut temporary trails in order to gain connection be-
Mule pack units should be supplied late in the after- tween columns, help an attacking force in assaulting or
noon or early in the morning while the troops are stin enveloping the enemy, or give a defending force quick
in camp. This permits pack units to move while the lateral communication. Here the leading cutters of the
trails are free and to keep their normal gaits, the walk column break the trail while succeeding, cutters widen
and amble. and improve it. Speed and relief are gained by rotating
The leader must make or have made a thorough route men every few minutes. Since these trails must be cut
reconnaissance before each march. If the tactical situ- swiftly, the route picked will largely depend on the
ation permits, a reconnaissance party of officers and ease with which the trail can be cut. Slight detours
men should go over the trail to check its condition and will often gain time. To make sure that the trail reaches
the time and distance of the march. They also look for the objective, a trail picker (with compass) should ac-
new routes around bad places; mark trails and streams company the leading cutters.
to be bridged; revise maps and mark camp sites, water- Trail marking is important, for trails change on the
ing points, and rest areas on them. At the end of the ground owing to erosion, fallen trees, swollen streams,
reconnaissance they supply the leader with a trail report and the quick jungle growth. This means that the trail
which will enable him to make his plans for the march you see on a map several years old often isn't there at
of his force and any new trail cutting or construction all or is shown incorrectly. Air photos often do not
necessary. show an existing trail in jungle areas. Therefore plain
If the report shows the route to be practicable, he markers will relieve a command of constant worry. The
should send out parties to clear, widen, and mark the methods most often used for marking are blazing trees
trails, and build bridges. If the report shows the route with machetes, nailing flattened cans on trees, or using
to be impracticable, then a new trail must be located wooden signs. For night marching, whitewashed trees
and cut. And this, of course, requires additional organi- or white signs are fine, but for immediate and temporary
zation and much more time. use a white string or cloth (bandage) can be tied on
Laying out a new trail calls for careful map study trees along the route.
which should aim at finding the most direct route, bear- How fast can you go? The rate of march largely de-
ing in mind existing trails, hills, streams, swamps, and pends on the condition of the trail. A well-cleared,
so on. Year-around conditions of the terrain must be marked, drained, and bridged trail offers an easy avenue
studied. A point to remember is that high ground has for single file, column of twos, threes, or fours. But
less vegetation to cut but it also has less water. Streams since the troops do usually have to march in single file,
should be crossed where the fords can be used the year this naturally strings out the column as the men move
around or where bridging is easiest. Any low ground up and down steep grades and clamber through streams
is usually dangerous except perhaps during the dry and mud. Rests must be frequent where the trail is
season. Before working on a trail, a reconnaissance muddy or steep.
party should follow the proposed route and definitely Leaders must enforce a stern march discipline par-
locate it on the ground because inaccuracies in the map ticularly to prevent straggling and to keep their men
will necessitate trail changes on the ground. In locating from drinking unchlorinated water. During the march,
the trail, a few men of the reconnaissance party first trail maintenance must continue, for both men and ani-
blaze a small opening through the jungle along the mals may churn the routes until they become impass-
1942 JUNGLE WARFARE 71

able for units in rear. Special details to cut new trails The radiotelephone is perhaps the most valuable piece
around bog holes, to repair bridges, or to corduroy of equipment, although the jungle growth may hampel
muddy sections, should be dropped off. No march transmission. A leader will therefore do well to pick out
should be undertaken 'without adequate trail-mainte- relay points at which he knows the radio reception and
nance equipment. transmission are good.
When possible, small detachments under an officer Small patrols, if made up of trained scouts, are able
or NCO should go ahead of the column to select the to move through jungle areas, avoid enemy outposts,
camp site, lay it out, and partly clear it. slip through hostile defenses, and penetrate into enemy
A good jungle camp site usually stands on high rear areas. These patrols are often one of the most im-
ground for natural protection, drainage, fresh air, and portant means for gaining information.
for the breezes that free it from insects. But sometimes Air reconnaissance is almost useless in areas covered
lower ground is more desirable in facilitating such by thick tropical growth, but aircraft can be used for
things as securing water for cooking, watering animals, distant reconnaissance to check the enemy's movements
and bathing. On ground high or low, cover and con- at entrances and exits from.jungle areas. Untrained or
cealment are no difficult problem in the jungle. careless troops-and even the Nazi or Jap is sometimes
When possible, marches should end in time to permit careless-may disclose their whereabouts to air obser-
the men to prepare and occupy the camp area before vation by their cooking fires, or by failure to hide their
dark. Unit bivouac areas are laid out well to the right mosquito bars or clothing which is being dried or aired.
and left of the trail, and clearing begins as soon as the The vigilant eye will also spot troops who move across
troops arrive. Only the smaller trees and underbrush clearings, through thinly timbered spaces, or along
should be cut so that a canopy remains overhead. Usu- broad trails.
any battalions are allotted a large area, then sub-divided The higher leaders should coordinate the reconnais-
into company areas. The subdivision of areas goes sance measures of the lower units and provide for dis-
down to include squads, so that units are kept together tant reconnaissance by aviation or by mechanized or
and control is easier. To avoid confusion and disorder, horse cavalry.
SECURITY
if it is necessary to move out of the camp quickly at
night, each squad leader designates squad rallying Seldom if ever in jungle war will you find a definite
points. Arrangements are likewise made for the orderly line that separates an area under our control from that
assemblyand movement of the whole command. in the hands of the Nazi or Jap. There will be no
"front" with its area of no man's land. Therefore it be-
RECONNAISSANCE hooves every leader to provide all-around 'pr~tection for
Reconnaissance in the jungle is far harder than in his unit-whatever its size-when it is in movement
the open, for observation is often limited to a few feet. through the jungles. In most instances the densest of
Since movement is largely confined to trails or roads, vegetation crowds right up to the edge of the trail,
reconnaissance is chieRy along them. Although trained blinding observation to the Ranks. Moreover, most
scouts and trackers, working along trails or roads may jungle paths follow the line of least resistance-they
pass enemy troops concealed in the undergrowth, they twist and wind, making it impossible to see any great
win not miss signs left by the enemy, for all movement distance to the front or rear. It follows that your every
along a jungle route leaves a track easily read by trained movement is always open to surprise attack from any
men. The broken stems of bushes, dust on the foliage direction. Troops accompanied by transportation are
or brushed off the foliage, footprints, and hoofmarks- even more vulnerable. Security detachments must ac-
all point to the passage of men. The scout's nose also cordingly operate at short distances so that they will
helps him, for cigarette smoke and the smell of burning not lose contact with the troops they are protecting. All
tobaccolinger much longer in the jungle than in more men must be schooled to react promptly in accordance
open areas. Broken or trampled brush may show that with a plan to defend themselves against surprise attack
individuals or groups have left the trail to hide or re- while on the march.
lieve themselves. And the trained ear detects move- The dense growth makes security difficult but it does
ments which can't be seen. Obviously this all calls for lend itself to your own concealment and enables your
trained jungle scouts. troops to move unseen by ground or air enemy ob-
The reconnaissance elements of advanced guards, servers. If attacking, a unit can make a Ranking or en-
and what is even more important, Rank guards, as well veloping march without being discovered. If forced to
as dismounted and mounted patrols, are important withdraw it can do so with ease behind a thin screen of
means of ground reconnaissance and information. automatic weapons before the enemy is aware of it.
Prompt transmission of information is one of the Moreover, since movement is confined to roads or trails,
major difficulties of jungle war. This means that every the pursuing force may be greatly delayed by demo-
useful method of communication must be in the hands litions and obstacles-including mines and booby traps
of the reconnaissance elements. For to rely solely on -which are placed across the route. The rank vegeta-
foot messenger may mean costly delay-and disaster. tion and winding trail net make it easy to delay and
72 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October
harass the pursuer with small mobile groups, which In each element of the column the automatic weap-
tackle the heads of his columns and retire before the ons should be distributed so that they can throw their
main enemy lxxly comes up. fire in all directions. In the event of an attack, desig-
Ail units protect themselves against low-flying air- nated units cover the front, rear, and Ranks at once by
craft by using their own weapons, for AA artillery will observation and deliver their fire promptly and effec-
seldom be on hand. But the concealment given by the tivelyas soon as the attacker's position has been located.
jungle itself is often the main item of antiaircraft pro- Surprise attacks or fires from ambushes in the jungle
tection. often come from extremely short ranges. Unless troops
Security against mechanized units must also be taken are trained to act promptly, they will suffer many casu-
into account. The operations of Nazi or Jap mechanized alties -before the enemy is located. Most such attacks
units will ordinarily be limited to areas along the out- will be made by small parties and prompt action by the
skirts of jungles, to large open areas or occasionally to unit in whose area the attack occurs will generally re-
trails or roads. You will find that in the jungle AT sult in driving off or destroying the enemy. But if the
mines are more easily transported and used than AT enemy is in force, the counterattack will at once disclose
guns. But where you expect the enemy to use mecha- this and enable the column commander to take proper
nized units your force should include AT guns. action.
Every leader must work toward the defeat and de- To insure coordinated action within each unit, prior
struction of the enemy's mechanized elements. As in to the march, leaders of subordinate elements are as-
other theaters of war, the general methods and weapons, signed sectors or areas of responsibility. When fired into,
including obstacles and demolitions, are useful in the troops leave the trail at once to gain concealment and
jungle. In addition, the jungle itself is ordinarily a bar- cover, and each subordinate unit faces the sector for
rier to mechanized units, and it should be used as an which it is responsible. The scouts of the unit covering
ally in working out antimechanized security measures. the area from which the fire is received indicate where
SECURITY ON THE MARCH
they think the hostile force is, and begin at once the
movement against the enemy. The scouts of the other
In considering the measures he will take to insure his
units move out into their sectors to feel them out and
column's safety on the march, a leader must remember
determine whether or not enemy units are there. When
that the enemy is in general confined to moving on the
the attacking force is driven off or destroyed, the com-
existing trails or roads. Therefore covering the trail or
mander at once reorganizes his column, replaces his
trails to the front and reconnoitering the lateral trails
advance guard or reassigns sector responsibility, and
coming in from the Ranks will ordinarily give protection
again takes up the advance. Units which have been in
against surprise from sizable groups of the enemy. But
contact with the enemy should remain between the col-
it is necessary to be constantly on the alert for surprise
umn and the last-known location of the attackers until
attack from small groups in ambush. Distances between
the column has cleared, and then withdraw and rejoin
elements on the march should be much less than in
open country. Special measures must be taken to insure the rear guard. Care must be taken to avoid being
contact between elements . drawn into full deployment at every surprise attack.
.All columns must always provide themselves with But a commander who doesn't act energetically and
both advance and rear guards. Flank guards cover the promptly may be held up indefinitely and his troops
lateral trails until the column has cleared. Ordinarily rendered useless by the enemy's intelligent use of a few
it will be impossible to have Rank groups paralleling the squads of aggressive infantrymen. At all halts the ad-
column. But in crossing open places in the jungle the vance and rear guards stay out and post march outposts
leading element must send patrols to the flanks and to cover the head and rear of the column. The main-
keep them there until the rear-most element has passed body commander sends out Ranking groups to both
through the dearing. To avoid being cut off, all ele- Ranks to protect the column during every halt.
ments detached from the column should rejoin the tail
of the column without delay. (Part IV will appear in the N01'ember-December issue. I

We had a wrong idea of total war. People thought of it as total


danger. It isn't that exactly. It's total effort.-JoNATHANDANIELS,
OeD.
An)' individual, whether or not he is a member of the service, is invited to submit constructive
suggestions relating to problems under study by the Coast Artillery Board, or to present any new
problems that properly may be considered by the Board. Communications should be addressed to the
President, Coast Artillery Board, Fort Monroe, Virginia.

THE COAST ARTILLERY BOARD


COLONEL \VILLlAM S. BOWEN, GA.G, President
LIEUTENANT COLONEL DONALD H. SMITH LIEUTENANT COLONEL i\hCHAEL J\l. IRVINE
LIEUTENANT COLONEL ANDREW \V. CLEMENT MAJOR AUSTIN E. FRIDANCE
LIEUTENANT COLONEL \VILLIS A. PERRY CAPTAIN JOHN P. TRAYLOR, a.D.
FIRST LIEUTENANT FRANCIS S. BUFFINGTON

New Equipment. New and revolutionary fire control the ball-bearing pivot at the end of the station arnl, it
equipment and new armament are now being furnished is easier to remove the ball-bearing fixture and substi-
to the harbor defenses. Verv substantial increases in tute the pivat shown an the sketch. The ball-bearing
accuracy as well as range an~1volume of fire are made pivot is replaced whenever the standard coupler is used.
possible. Training in both operation and maintenance A good standard of precisian is required in this work,
of the new equipment are provided in special caurses as seriaus errors in both azimuth and range will result
conducted by the Coast Artillery Schaal. Questians from even a small error in the locatian on the platting
concerning the new materiel will be answered if prac- board, of base-end stations.
ticable by the Baard. Questians cancerning the special Where M3 ar 1\14 platting boards have been issued
courses in the Coast Artillery Schaal may be addressed but which lack statian plates far fire cantrol stations (as
to the Cammandant. in the case of certain new single-statian fire control in-
Plotting boards. In the case of batteries using plotting struments), the Ordnance Department plans to send
boards of the M3 or 1'v14type, where one or more of the out skilled machinists from the arsenal where the baards
obscn'ation stations have not yet been constructed, it are manufactured, to bore the new statian plates.
may be necessary to use an existing station pending the Plotting room trailers. Military characteristics for a
constructian af the abservatian statian for which the platting room trailer far 155mm gun batteries were sub-
board is drilled. The accompanying sketch shows the mitted in 1940. A full trailer rather than a semitrailer
details of a method of providing a special station center was believed desirable. By letter af J lIRe 8, 1942, the
plug for such a station. One-eighth-inch stock was used Adjutant General's Office announced the standardiza-
for the connecting plate. In order to prevent the station tion of wheeled motor vehicles chassis and trailers. Anv
arm from interfering with the gun arm the pivot pin full trailer with tandem axle must be suitable for to,~-
permanently attached to the station arm must be short- ing behind a 2~-ton, 6 x 6 truck. If a larger truck is re-
ened to three-fourths of an inch. On the sketch "A" quired, a semitrailer must be used.
indicates the accurate distance between two observation In June, 1942, an expansible semitrailer was delivered
stations for which standard station centers are provided to the Board far test. This trailer in the closed positian
on the platting board. The distance and azimuth af the is representative af a nan-expansible type trailer and as
line B to the temporary station must be accurately de- far as the layout of equipment is cancerned a compari-
termined. The upper figure in the sketch illustrates a son was made of the expansible and fixed size trailers.
methad to. be used when the temparary station is very As a result of the test, the Baard is af the apinion that
close to the position of the station for which the plotting no further development of the expansible type trailer
board is drilled. \\Then the temporary station is located is warranted. The only advantage of the expansible type
between two drilled pasitions, the construction illu- of trailer is that it permits a better arrangement of
strated in the center of the sketch may be used. equipment, which, however, is not essential to smaath
A new coupler must be constructed for the station operation. On the other hand, the expansible traile~ has
arm. The length af the coupler is equal to the distance the disadvantage of increased over-all height and cam-
from the temparary station to. the directing point af the plexity, and its practicability in cannectian with field
battery, reduced to the scale of the plotting board. In usage is questianable.
order to avoid the necessity of canstructing a race for \Var Department action to. discantinue develapment
74 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October

o A

Plaiting Boord

'--.,
, .,
-. , , '".
ll)

" t
~
I •
, ~
7"
i6-20
~---r
S.A.g =.,,~
Thre~-= :1'"
.477~_.
~815r \ Replaces
,,{
'-I!!!

8011 Bearing
f Fixture

-o~~r
T
.5/2
'"
ATTACHMENT
ON M3-M4
FOR TEMPORAR"V STATIONS
TYPE PLOTilNG BOARDS
t.
Plote No.1 C.A.B. Aug.15,1942
1942 COAST ARTILLERY BOARD NOTES 75
of trailers for plotting rooms is based on the fact that that azimuth scales graduated in degrees be furnished
the principal mission of seacoast artillery 155mm gun all portable type seacoast searchlight control stations.
units is the defense of harbors and harbor facilities Army Ground Forces have decided that existing port-
against water-borne targets. A high degree of mobility able seacoast artillery searchlights and those to be
does not appear to be essential for the accomplishment procured in the future (including controllers) should
of the mission. Shelter for the plotting room equipment be equipped with azimuth circles graduated in degrees.
in the operating position and transportation for the In order to simplify procurement it has been proposed
equipment are essential. Combination of tpe two re- that all future antiaircraft artillery and seacoast artillery
quirements into a single vehicle is desirable but is not searchlights be equipped with azimuth circles graduated
considered essential. Separate shelters in the operating in degrees and hundredths of a degree.
position can be provided or improvised and present Radio-controlled targets. The delivery of radio-con-
transportation, while not completely satisfactory, may trolled target boats to harbor defenses should begin
be considered adequate. The demand for the 4- and 6- within the next month. The boats are thirty-three feet
ton cargo trucks appears to preclude early availability in length and are capable of a speed of about forty
for the purpose of towing a plotting room trailer. knots. The Coast Artillery School is conducting a
Seacoast searchlight materiel. About 1931 the War course to train marine engine mechanics and radio
Department approved the policy of providing seacoast specialists in the operation and maintenance of the
searchlights of the portable type furnished for antiair- equipment. The new JR boats should prove to be an
craft artillery use. The standard rubber-covered cables excellent training means, especially in simulating at-
were furnished with the lights. The rubber-covered tack by a high-speed maneuvering motor torpedo boat.
cable is not satisfactory for permanent or semiperma- The boats may be operated by means of conventional
nent installations. If heavy vehicles are driven over un- controls when tracking drill is desired.
armored rubber cable it will be pinched and bruised; Damage tables. Work on the computation. and con-
and for protection against damage by shell fire or bomb- struction of damage tables for all seacoast artillery major
ing, trenching is essential. Armored cable is better suited armament is about completed. These tables will be
to trenching. As the result of recent action the Army distributed to harbor defenses as soon as completed and
Ground Forces have decided that where local conditions reproduced.
warrant permanent installation of cable, armored cable Training ammunition allowances. Supplemental al-
will be supplied on special requisition. Otherwise lowances of certain types of practice ammunition for 3-
standard rubber-covered power and control cable will inch, 8-inch, lO-inch, 12-inch, and 14-inch seacoast ar-
be supplied. tillery units have been announced. The allowance of tar-
The great majority of antiaircraft artillery search- get practice ammunition for 155mm batteries will be
lights issued for seacoast artillery use have not been sup- more than doubled in the near future. Instructions al-
plied with azimuth scales either on the base of the ready issued are being modified so as to authorize record
searchlight or on the controller. A number of scales service practices not less than two months apart for
with mil graduations have been manufactured for the 3-inch batteries and not less than four months apart
base of the searchlight; also a number of scales gradu- for all other batteries.
ated in mils and degrees have been procured for in- Gun batteries receiving supplementary allowances
stallation on the controller tripod. The Board recom- will employ Case II pointing for not more than one
mended that the Chief of Engineers be requested to record target practice except in the case of 3-inch bat-
furnish azimuth scales graduated in degrees for all teries which should fire using Case II pointing for all
portable type seacoast searchlights now in service and practices.

Our strength grows out of our weakness. Not until


we are pricked and stung and sorely shot at, awakens
the indignation which arms itself with secret forces.-
EMERSON.
Antiaircraft Artillery Board

COLONELROBERT\V. CRICHLOW,President
LIEUTENA;\,'TCOLONELROBERTH. KREUTER l\IA]ORi\hLTON L. OCDEN
LIEUTENANTCOLONEL\VILMER S. i\IERRITI CAPTAINKER;\IlT K. BLACK
LrEUTENA;\,'TCOLONELJAMESE. MCGRAW CAPTAINJOHN G. PIKE, JR.
LIEUTENANTCOLONELPAUL \V. SHUMATE,0.0. FIRST lrEUTENA;\,'TEMIL H. JEBE
i\IA]ORJAMESNESMITH, II FIRSTLIEUTENANT\VILLlA;\I C. LACY
FIRST LIEUTENA;,\,T
HO;\IER R. OLDFIELD,JR.

The Antiaircraft Artillery Board, formerly an integral a movable mirror are installed. The airplane model and
part of the Coast Artillery Board, was activated with the background are both reAected in the mirror. By chano-
reorganization of the vVar Department in March of this ing the aspect of the model, and by rolling tl{e mirr~r
year. In l\hy the Antiaircraft Artillery Board was trans- forward or backward, the image of the airplane model
ferred for permanent station to Camp Davis, N. C., appears to Ay in three dimensions on any desired course.
where it recently has moved into new buildings espe- It is possible to simulate tracers by drawing a light spot
cially built for its use. In a future issue of the JOURNAL in front of or behind the model. In another method of
it is hoped to include pictures of the Board in its new using the trainer the student gunner is equipped with a
setting. combination forward area sight and colored light pro-
Development of antiaircraft materiel is progressing jector. The gunner is provided with glasses of the same
at a rapid rate. It is not permissible to discuss most of color as used in the light projector. His point of aim
the items under study and test because of their secret or can be observed by the instructor without the student
confidential nature. However, the following items are seeing the spot. The miniature range is expected to be
selected from unclassified reports. useful for the following phases of training:
Body Armor. A set of body armor was recently sent to Use of forward area sights,
the Board for test and recommendation as to its adoption Estimation of course angle,
for use by personnel of antiaircraft units. The complete Estimation of deAections,
set consists of two "T" shaped plates with a cotton web Observation of tracer,
harness. One "T" is held in an upright position in the Aircraft recognition.
front of the body over the lungs and stomach, and one
"T" is held in an inverted position on the back of the Open Type Emergency Sights for Antiaircraft Gmls.
wearer's body. Each 'T" is of lA-inch homogeneous The Antiaircraft Artillery Board has investigated the
bullet-proof steel, and consists of two pieces hinged to- use of standard antimechanized telescopic sights for
gether to provide Aexibiilty. The dimensions of the two 90mm and3-inch antiaircraft guns for direct fire against
pieces of armor for each "T" are 9" x 4lA" for the hori- dive bombers at short range. As a result of this investi-
zontal part and 8" x 5~" for the vertical part of the "T." gation the following points were determined:
The total weight of the equipment is approximately I. vVithin limits which are considered satisfactory.
fifteen pounds, while the body area given protection aerial targets can be picked up easily and tracked by
amounts to 84.5 square inches front and back when means of the telescopic antimechanized sights which
viewed directly from front or rear. The Board recom- have been standardized for the 90mm and 3-inch anti-
mended against the adoption of the equipment because aircraft guns.
the body area covered by the armor is too small, the 2. Although the disturbance of firing and the dust
armor too thin to give much protection, and the ad- and smoke incident thereto cause the trackers to lose
ditional weight of the proposed equipment tends to the target occasionally on crossing courses, this inte~-
handicap the individual in the performance of his ference is not serious enough to preclude the use of dI-
duties. It was believed much more desirable to provide rect sights on such courses; and it is believed the effect
armor shields on antiaircraft guns than to provide indi- will be negligible in the case of directly incoming
vidual body armor of extremely limited value. targets, or targets diving directly toward the gun.
Miniature Range for Training In The Use of Auto- 3. a. The azimuth tracker is required, while moving
nuztic 1Veapons. The Board is constructing a miniature the gun in azimuth with the right hand, to use his left
range for training gunners in firing automatic weapons hand to adjust his tracking telescope to follow the target
at aerial targets. The range when built is to be tested to in elevation.
determine its usefulness as a training aid. The range is h. This operation was found to be practicable while
actually a small theatre in which an airplane model and following slow targets on crossing courses and eyen
----
19-12 ANTIAIRCRAFr ARTILLERY BOARD 77
more practicable in the case of targets diving directly and the base of the cartridge case is supported by the
toward the gun, in which case no such adjustment rammer arm which is swung down into position by the
\\"ouldbe required, except initially to pick up the target. gunner. The relayer operates a lever which releases the
4. The telescope which is used by the elevation rammer and permits it to be driven home by a spring.
tracker remains aligned with the axis of the bore under During the tests the rammer functioned satisfactorily.
all conditions and no serious complications are found One of the chief diHiculties encountered during previ-
here. ous tests of a rammer of similar type was the separation
The Board concluded that the antimechanized sights of ammunition rounds as a result of ramming. In these
(Elbow Telescopes M24 and J\US for the 3-inch Gun previous tests, the round was thrown into the breech
"Iount M2A2 and the Elbow Telescopes M24 and M26 with such force that the extractors, in many cases,
for the 90mm Gun Mount Ml and J\IIAl) together jerked the case from the projectile as the ro~nd was
with the associated telescope mounts, provide a type of being seated. No such malfunctions occurred during
on-carriage, non-computing sight acceptable for employ- the subject tests. Separation of the rounds appears to
ment against dive bombers at short range. The Board have been avoided through the installation of a new
recommended that the Chief of Ordnance be requested type buffer which operates through almost the entire
to provide sun filters for the telescopes on the above stroke of the rammer. The tendency of rounds to sepa-
sights. rate has been reduced also by double crimping of the
90m1ll Sprillg Rammer. The Board recently tested cartridge case around the base of the projectile. Action
the first production model of the spring rammer for the to effect double crimping was initiated during the de-
90mm antiaircraft gun. Briefly, the rammer consists of velopment of the spring rammer at the time the diffi-
a spring-driven arm mounted on the gun cradle in such culty was experienced with separating rounds. The
a way that the rammer is retracted by recoil. In loading, Board recommended that with slight modification the
the round is laid with the shell inserted in the breech, rammer be accepted.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 1Il1ll11ll1ll1ll"""""I1l"IllIllIIll"IllIIll~IIlIIll"IllIIIll"IllIllIllIll""I11I1lIIll"IllIIllIllIIllIllIll"~"1IIWIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII.
*
Coast Artillery Jollrnal *
Fifty-first Year of Publication
*
*
flews und Comment
COLONEL FREDERIC A. PRICE, Editor *,.. 111I111111I1111111111111I11111111I11111111I111I1111111111111111111111111111111I111I11111111I1111111111111I11111111I111I1111I111111I1111I1111I11111111I11111I.
MAJOR ARTHUR SYMONS, Associate Editor ,..
Coast Artillerymen to Meet
*,..
There are a large number of Coast Artillery officers
,.. of all components on duty in and around \Vashington.
,.. D. C. Many of these are old friends who seldom have
,.. a chance to renew old friendships. Many others are
,.. lately in the service and have not yet made many friends
,.. among other Coast Artillerymen.
The JOURNAL prints articles on subjects of pro- ,.. All such officers in and around Washington will have
fessional and general interest to officers of all
the components of the Coast Artillery Corps in
*,.. an opportunity to meet each other at a stag dutch-treat
order to stimulate thought and provoke discus-
sion. However, opinions expressed and conclu- dinner at the Army and Navy Club in Washington On
sions drawn in articles are in no sense official.
*,.. Friday, October 16, 1942. Plans will then be discussed
They do not reflect the opinions or conclusions
of any official or branch of the War Department. concerning further dinners or dinner-dances during the
If-
winter. The gathering will be at 6: 3D-the dinner at
The JOURNAL does not carry paid advertising. ,.. 7:30 P.M.
The JOURNAL pays for original articles upon
publication. Manuscripts should be addressed to ,.. All officers expecting to attend are requested to no-
the Editor. The JOURNAL is not responsible for
manuscripts unaccompanied by return postage.
,..* tify the Editor, COASTARTILLERYJOURNAL,by phone
or mail before noon on Tuesday, October 13, 1942.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * If-
,.. Phone: REpublic 7812. Address: 1115 Seventeenth
Street, N.\\T., \Vashington, D. C.
The United States Coast If-
If-
Artillery Association .. f f f

OFFICERS
.. Books for Enlisted Specialists

MAJOR GENERAL J. A. GREEN


*.. The Director of the Department of Enlisted Spe-

BRIG. GENERAL
PRESIDENT

DONALD B. ROBINSON
.. cialists, the Coast Artillery School, has prepared a list
of texts recommendeq for study by applicants for ad-
* mission to the school. The Department offers the fol-
VICE-PRESIDENT

COLONEL FREDERIC
SECRETARY-TREASURER
A. PRICE ..* lowing courses:
1. Master Gunner Course

ADDITIONAL MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL


....* 2.
3.
Electrical Course
Radio Course
BRIG. GENERAL GORDON DE L. CARRINGTON
.. 4. Automotive Course
BRIG. GENERAL CHARLES C. CURTIS
R. MICKELSEN .. 5. Radio Detection Course.
..
BRIG. GENERAL STANLEY
BRIG. GENERAL RALPH C. TOBIN Applicants for all courses will profit from study of
COLONEL HENRY 1. ELLERBE Practical Arithmetic, Part I, by Palmer. First C01lrse in
....
If-
COLONEL H. N. HERRICK
Algebra, by Milne and Downey, is recommended for
COLONEL CHARLES 1. CLARK
applicants for all courses except the Automotive Course .
....
x
The purpose of the Association shall be to promote
*
..*
Prospective Master Gunner students will find Plane
Geometry, by Palmer, Taylor, and Farnum, worth
their study. The Radio Handbook and the Radio Ama-
teur's Handbook are recommended for both radio
courses .
the efficiency of the Coast Artillery Corps by main-
taining its standards and traditions, by dissemi- .. f f f
nating professional knowledge, by inspiring greater
effort towards the improvement of materiel and
* Check Payment
methods of training and by fostering mutual un- * Due to the present very large collection charges
derstanding, respect and cooperation among all * placed against all checks drawn on banks in Hawaii and
arms, branches and components of the Regular * other outlying bases, it is requested that all payments to
Army, National Guard, Organized Reserves, and * the JOURNALfrom such locations be made by money
Reserve Officers' Training Corps.
* order. In such cases, the cost of the money order may
* be deducted from the original bill.
1942 NEWS AND COMMENT 79
Keeping Posted is eighteen subscriptions to the JOURNAL.(Three more
(Things of interest from official publications) subscriptions came in from Colonel McFadden after
this article was written originally.)
lV.D. Bulletin No. 33, July 14, 1942, contains a com- Lieutenant Colonel G. W. Whybark and the Uni-
plete codification of rules and customs pertaining to versity of Alabama ROTC unit have also been ardent
the display and use of the flag of the United States of supporters of the JOURNAL.The latest communication
America. from Colonel Whybark included sixteen subscriptions
Section II, W.o. Circular No. 242, July 23, 1942, de- to the magazine of the CAe. Major Thomas A. Baker,
tails instructions pertaining to the use of chemical of the 204th CA, sent in eight subscriptions to make
warfare ammunition during training, demonstrations, the 2d Battalion of that regiment 100%.
and tactical exercises. Colonel Frank H. Barnwell, of the 263d Coast Artil-
Section IV, W.o. Training Circ",!larNo. 44, July 24, lery, sent along a list of twelve new subscribers; lieu-
1942, releases valuable information concerning night tenant W. S. McCullum of Battery E, 70th CA, sent
visibility. in five; and Captain Edward H. Hahn, Jr., of the 612th
Coast Artillery, boosted our total by nine new sub-
lVD. Training Circular No. 45, July 24, 1942, presents scribers.
general instructions for the preparation of small arms Just as we go to press, Captain Peter P. Bruce, adju-
and artillery materiel for use in cold climates. tant of the 422d Separate Coast Artillery Battalion,
Section II, W.o. Training Circular No. 48, August 6, comes through with twelve Renew and Bill subscrip-
1942, details safety precautions in loading and firing tions, the kind of subscription order that requires the
the 90mm AA gun. least paperwork at the JOURNALoffice.
WD. Training Circular No. 51, August 10, 1942, an- Major George A. Baldry, of the 601st Coast Artillery,
nounces that TM's 9-1655 and -2655, both dated and Captain Charles W. \iVard, Adjutant of the 14th
January 26, 1942, do not supersede the Training Coast Artillery, get in under the wire with twenty-five
Manuals on the same subject (Director M-l) dated and eleven subscriptions? respectively.
July 18, 1940. The newer manuals contain essen- Flash! Five more subscriptions from Colonel Mc-
tially the same material, and differ only in the ar- Fadden!
rangement of the text. l' l' l'

w.o. Training Circular No. 52, August 12, 1942, de- Note to JOURNAL Authors
scribes the construction and use of infantry intrench- The War Department Bureau of Public Relations
ments and weapon emplacements. has authorized the JOURNALto quote from a letter dated
W.D. Training Circular No. 56, August 19, 1942, dis- September 19, 1942: "Contributors to the COAST
cusses methods, equipment, and procedure of air- ARTILLERYJOURNAl.are not prohibited by the pro-
ground visual communication and identification. visions of Section I, Circular 311, W.D. 1942, from
Changes No.1, to TM 4-310, Au.gust 14, 1942, revise submitting professional articles as heretofore."
the hand signals shown on pages 275-276. l' l' l'

~ l' l' Marines Adopt Barrage Balloons


JOURNAL Boosters Keep 'em Rolling The following is quoted from an article titled "Watch-
Your Editor is always deeply gratified by the number dogs of the Sky," by Lieutenant W. P. McCahill,
of group subscription orders that keep coming to the USMC, in the July issue of National Aeronautics:
JOURNALoffices. The magazine makes no all-out effort "As proved in the battle of Britain, barrage balloons,
to indoctrinate unit commanders with the idea of 100% strategically located, force hostile planes to fly high for
subscription lists, but the commanders themselves are fear of shearing off a wing on the almost invisible cables
finding the publication of their arm important enough which hold the hulking rubber bags to the ground.
to sell it to their officers. The JOURNALis edited with Filled with helium or hydrogen the balloon operates at
one dominating thought-to make it of the greatest pos- heights above 6,000 and below 10,000 feet.
sible value for the troops in the field. "Axis airmen have shown a healthy respect for the
Lieutenant Colonel William e. McFadden, of the hidden steel cables. Hence the adoption by the Marine
69th Coast Artillery, is one of many officers who typify Corps of balloon barrage protection for the vital bases
the JOURNALbooster. Colonel McFadden has been entrusted to them. Preventing strafing and low-altitude
sending in group subscriptions for many years, often bombing, the balloons are the perfect defensive com-
Without indication that they came from him. Only by panions of antiaircraft batteries."
comparing handwriting and postmarks has the Circula- NOTE: The above excerpted article refers to the op-
tion Department been sure that many of the orders did eration of Barrage Balloon Base One at Parris Island,
come from Colonel McFadden. His latest contribution South Carolina.
80 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October
Coast Artillery and Barrage Balloon Boards mechanical. For every shot he fires on the range he
AR 90-20, dated June 30, 1942, provides for the con- loads his gun a hundred times in drill and dry runs.
tinuance of the Coast Artillery Board, the functions of Only when he finds himself in the thick of battle does
which have been somewhat changed by the establish- all this monotonous labor suddenly bear fruit in speed,
ment of the Antiaircraft Artillery Board, which was confidence and cool self-possession.
mentioned in the last issue of the JOURNAL. Artillerymen with the 1942 A.E.F. have been fortu-
The Coast Artillery Board will be stationed at Fort nate in varying the monotony of their training routine
Monroe, as heretofore, and will consider such subjects with new guns and new techniques. They have had
pertaining to seacoast artillery as may be referred to it added good fortune in being placed in a country new
by the Commanding General, Army Ground Forces. and strange and filled with difficulties which have
The Board will also originate and submit recommenda- called upon the deepest springs of their ingenuity.
tions for improvement of the Coast Artillery Corps. These artillerymen have become experts on guns they
The Board will operate under the supervision and like. A troublesome "question of supply and transport
control of the Chief of the Requirements Division, has been solved. British and American amity has been
Army Ground Forces. broadened by dose contact on a professional basis. Men
A have been trained in the sort of country in which they
R 90-25, dated June 6, provides for the Barrage will fight. -
Balloon Board, stationed at Camp Tyson, Tennessee. It looks like a good job for everybody all around.
This board will consist of a president and such Coast
Artillery officers under his jurisdiction as may be des-
ignated by the Commanding General, Antiaircraft
Command, and such officers of other arms and services The WAAC's Mobilize
as may be detailed by the Commanding General, Army The first Officer Candidate School of the Women's
Ground Forces. The board will consider subjects per- Army Auxiliary Corps opened at Fort Des Moines.
taining to barrage balloons and other subjects that may Iowa, on July 20. The enrollment of 440 was selected
be referred to it by the Commanding General, Antiair- from more than 30,000 applicants and included women
craft Command, under whose control and direction the on volunteer duty with the Aircraft Warning Service.
Board will operate. Initial plans contemplate a WAAC strength of 13,-
000 by the end of 1942. The present authorized
strength is 25,000, with plans pending for an authorized
AA In Northern Ireland
strength of 75,000.
By MARSHALLANDREWS Members of the W AAC will be assigned to two types
Washington Post Staff Writer of units:
Aircraft Warning Service will receive about 40%,
NORTHERNIRELAND,July 16.-There's a touch of
1918 about what has happened to the artilleryman in organized into companies of approximately 11 officers
the A.E.F. of 1942. and 250 auxiliaries. There will be two types of com-
panies, Operations and Filter Companies. During the
Like his father, he has left at home the guns on
remainder of 1942, all companies of the Fighter Com-
which he trained and has learned the science all over
mand on the eastern seaboard will be manned partially
again on guns borrowed from his Allies. Along with
by members of the Corps, supplemented by volunteers.
their British guns they got British instructors, who
Thereafter it is contemplated that companies will con-
lived with them in their gun parks and convinced them
sist entirely of members of the WAAC.
that in spite of his broad A's the British soldier is a right
guy once you know him. Service Command companies, with authorized
strength of three officers, twenty leaders, and 127 aux-
The reason for this is an excellent one. It has saved
iliaries, will be tailor-made to fit the duties at the post to
valuable shipping space which would have been re-
which assigned.-Adju-tant General's School Bulletin.
quired to bring over the guns and more shipping space
to keep them supplied with ammunition.
Antiaircraft units, like the light field artillery, have
taken over British weapons and have learned to handle New Aircraft Markings
them under British guidance. They found British ser- The most recent War Department instructions on
geants a good deal tougher than the guns themselves, the subject of marking of aircraft call for an insignia
but by now they have come to appreciate the fine quali- composed of a white five-pointed star within a cir-
ties of both and to get along with both as if they had cumscribed blue circle. The red, white and blue tail
met them in some replacement center back home. markings have been discontinued.
For the artilleryman training is at best a tedious The star" insignia will be applied to the upper left
business. Once he has become acquainted with his wing surface, the lower right wing surface, and the
weapon, what he does from then on is repetitious and sides of the fuselage.
1942 NEWS AND COMMENT 81
AR90-40 About one-fourth of the new cargo trucks to be
The \iV ar Department has released a reVISIon of delivered to the Army in August and at least half of
Army Regulations 90-40, dated June 25, 1942, govern- the September and October deliveries will have bodies
ing the harbor defenses of the Coast Artillery Corps. of \\'ood. The conversion to \\'ood bodies is expected to
The new pamphlet supersedes A.R. 90-40, October 2, be complete after October this year.
1937,including paragraph 4, section 4, of War Depart-
ment Circular No. 35, 1938 series, and paragraph I,
section 5, of Circular No. 219, 1941 series. The new Commandos at Dieppe
edition is composed of 10 paragraphs, as follows: I, The Allied Commando forces which raided Dieppe
Definition and Composition; 2, Establishment; 3, Com- on August 19 captured and destroyed a German coastal
mander; 4, Visits and Courtesies; 5, Staff; 6, Channels battery of six 6-inch howitzers sited on the main beach
of Correspondence; 7, Records; 8, Classification and at Dieppe. More German coastal guns were knocked out
Safekeeping of Military Records; 9, Photographs of further west.
Works of Defense, and 10, Damage to Army Sub- At Varangeville the Commandos captured and de-
marine Cables by Passing Vessels. stroyed a battery of 6-inch naval guns.

FM 4-126 A Job To Do
It is expected that the ne\\' Field Manual 4-126, The following article was written at his "task force"
Service of the Piece] 90mm Gun] will be distributed to headquarters by a commanding officer of a coast artil-
units in the field in the very near future. Among the lery unit in an important overseas post:
features of the new Field Manual will be a method of "A few officers still come out to scenes of action] or
emplacing the gun, using the prime mover; and ne"" possible action, imbued with the idea that the morale
designations of the members of the gun sections, bring- of men under them depends upon the entertainment,
ing the designations into agreement with T /0 4-17, or distractions, that can be provided for them. Nothing
April I, 1942. could be further from the truth. The American soldier
comes into the field with one sole idea uppermost,
namely, to do the job thoroughly and as quickly as pos-
Give' em All a Chance sible-so that he can get back home to the distractions
The following paragraph was abstracted from a letter of his personal choice.
written by Captain Carl W. Kruegel, commanding Bat- "His morale depends entirely on his confidence in his
tery D of the 420th Coast Artillery Battalion: leaders. He asks only two things:
"Please enter our subscription for two more copies of "First, that the work assigned to him be essential to
the JOURNAL. We find that one copy is worn out the main effort and that he be told clearly what is ex-
through constant use before everyone has a chance to pected of him.
readit." "Second, that all the creature comforts practicable in
There are still some batteries that have not sub- the situation be provided him.
scribed to the JOURNAL because the battery command- "Perhaps, unconsciously, he asks a third, that his offi-
ersmust have the mistaken idea that "enlisted men don't cers prepare themselves for the problem in hand and
read the JOURNAL." Enlisted men do read the profes- plan assiduously to insure that his efforts be not wasted.
sionalmagazine of the Coast Artillery Corps when they His greatest strength as a soldier lies in his capacity to
are given the opportunity, as Captain Kruegel's letter see quickly what is needed, and in his willingness to do
indicates. what he thinks right without regard for his personal
welfare. It is that latter trait that makes heroes of men
who will later quake with fear at what they have done
880,000 Trucks and Trailers -or may even quake in the doing, but go ahead. In
In one day recently the Army purchased 880,000 his leaders, he expects the same insight and initiative
trucksand trailers of various types in sixty-four separate but in a greater degree. If they have it, nothing will
Contractswith forty-one manufacturers. Contracts were shake his morale.
Signedwith large and small manufacturers, representing "So, when your outfit is ordered overseas, don't be
mostof the country's truck and vehicle industry. The too concerned about how much post, camp and station
total cost of these vehicles will exceed $1,500,000,000. equipment you can sneak aboard ship-unless it will
The majority of the new trucks will have wood help win battles. Don't let the men load up a lot of
bodies, thus conserving critical metal. Steel-bodied loot and luxury. Just be certain that you know what
cargotrucks are still required for some purposes. Steel YOU are going to do when you get off the ship, and that
is superior to wood for tropical usage because it resists you have prepared yourself to LEAD your troops with-
insect and weather damage. out cajoling them. Morale won't worry you then."
82 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-Octohe1
Transportation Corps had to have almost identical physical requirements to
The insignia of the ne\vly-created Transportation that of brass. When a &un is fired the explosive charge
C?rps will be of gold-colored metal, depicting a winged expands the gun barrel for a fraction of a second. Then
raIlroad-car \vheel, symbolic of railway transportation, the barrel. contracts to its original size. The cartridge
flan~ed on a rail ~~d charged on a shield placed upon case, holdmg the gun-powder also expands and it, too
an eIght-spoke ShIPs steering \-vheel. The shield fash- mU,streturn to its original size, so that the shell may ~
ioned after the country's Federal route markers, repre- easIly extracted. Brass has these physical requirements
sents highway transportation and the ship's wheel, which resul~ed in its universal use in case making. B;
water transportation. The insignia will be worn by both t~e, prodllctIon of a successful steel cartridge case, the
officers and enlisted men, the officers' as a cut-out and lImIts on ammunition production resulting from the
the enlisted men's mounted on a disc. many demands for copper have been removed. Over
The newly-adopted colors of the Transportation thirty manufacturers are now making the new steel
Corps are brick red piped with golden yellow. cartridge cases.
.,. .,. .,. The steel cartridge cases have been thoroughly tested
for durability and reliability by Army ordnance. The
Steel Cartridge Cases Germans, whose supply of copper is appreciably smaller
Substitution of steel fo; brass in the manufacture of than ours, have been experimenting for some time with
artillery cartridge cases-a major development in the steel as a substitute for brass. Similarly, other countries
field of Army ordnance-has been announced. The pro- of the United Nations have been looking for substi-
gram will result in the conservation of large amounts tutes. It is believed that this country is in advance in
of copper, a principal component of brass. this dEvelopment.
The change-over from brass to pressed steel in the Although details of the program are secret, it can be
composition of cartridge cases is part of a broad Armv revealed, for example, that in the substitution of pressed
conservation program, made necessary by huge war d;- steel for copper for one primer case, J?easuring less than
mands on critical materials. It was explained that con- one inch, the savings will be 11,000 tons of copper in
currently with the substitution of steel for various more 1942 and 1943. Pressed steel is also being substituted
critical materials, the Army was converting steel com- for ?ther critical materials, such as aluminum and mag-
ponents, formerly produced by forging, casting and au- neSIum.
tomatic screw machine processes, to pressed steel. This Substantial progress has been made in the manu-
is resulting in savings in critical machine hours, labor facture of steel components, formerly produced by the
and expense. more intricate and more expensive forging, casting and
The transformation of the method of making car- automatic screw machine processes. In effect, this de-
tridge cases is the result of a year of experiment, the velopment of pressed steel will bring the facilities of the
results of which are now announced as successful. On automobile companies and manufacturers of consumer
February 17, 1942, the War Department announced durable goods, into fuller play in the armament pro-
that "steel cartridge cases for artillery shells of various gram.
sizes are being produced on development orders by sev-
eral manufacturing firms." These development orders Qualification Badges for Vehicle Operators
were successful, and over the next few months the
change-over to steel for artillery cartridge cases will be A qualification badge for Army motor vehicle drivers
made. Ordnance experts, after extensive tests, report and mechanics similar to the badges for qualification in
that the new cases are as satisfactory as those made from arms has been authorized by the Army.
brass. The basic badge will be a crosspatee of oxidized silver
Similar experiments, in initial phases, are being car- with the representation of a disk wheel with tire placed
ried on in the field of small arms ammunition, with on the center. Bars of oxidized silver to be suspended
preliminary good results. Jackets for small arms am- from the basic badge will show the type of qualification
munition, formerly composed in great part of copper, of the individual. The qualified driver of .wheeled ve-
are now being converted to clad steel. hicles will have a bar designating him as "Driver-W";
\Vith the declaration of war last December, the the qualified driver of track or half-track vehicles will
United States had on hand one of the largest copper be designated by "Driver- T"; the motorcyclist, "Driver
supplies in its history. This country still has access, -M"; and the mechanic for automotive or allied trades
domestically and from South America, to important will be designated by "Mechanic."
supplies of copper. However, huge demands for copper In order to qualify for the Driver Award, soldiers
for a variety of war purposes both by this country and must meet the following standards:
by the United Nations occasioned the research on sub- ( I) Pass an aptitude test and the standard driver's
stitution by the relatively more plentiful steel. qualification tests as prescribed by the Army;
The problem of a chan~e in materials used in the car- (2) Perform duty for a minimum of three months as
tridge case was a difficult one, because the substitute a driver or ~ssistant driver of an Army vehicle
1942 NEWS AND COMMENT 83
without traffic violations and with an accident- show how troops can ferry kit across rivers. And he
free record and a rating of excellent; scaled a t\velve-foot tower, jumped over trenches, yell-
(3) Be assigned to duty as a driver or an assistant ing, in a mock street battle.-Daily Express, London.
driver of a vehicle; and
(4) Have not had award revoked for cause during
the previous six months. AA Guns vs. Tanks
Qualification for the Mechanic Award requires that In the Soviet-German War the Red Army antiaircraft
the soldier: artillery has learned to combat tanks as well as planes.
(1) Complete a standard vehicle mechanic's course Dual purpose antiaircraft guns make good antitank
with a rating of skilled or have sufficient previ- guns because of their high muzzle velOCity,high cyclic
ous experiences as automotive mechanic to jus- rate of fire, and 3600 traverse.
tify a skilled rating; In the first six months of the war Red Army antiair-
(2) Perform duty for a minimum of three months craft artillery fired in self defense at enemy tanks when
as an automotive mechanic, second echelon or they broke through to the battery positions. Gradually
higher, with a.rating of excellent; the antiaircraft artillery became an organic part of the
(3) Be assigned to duty as an automotive mechanic, antitank defensive system. In numerous instances
second echelon or higher; and Soviet antiaircraft guns successfully repulsed attacks of
(4) Have not had award revoked for cause during large German tank units ..
previous six months. The antiaircraft units learned that most tactical op-
erations seem to divide themselves into two phases. In
The Motor Vehicle Driver and Mechanic Award the first, army artillery concentrates heavy fire on enemy
will be made by regimental, separate battalion, or sepa- tanks before they can jump off. It then lays down a
rate organization commanders upon recommendation screen of fire to prevent the enemy tanks approaching
and certification as to qualifications by the immediate our forward line of defense and breaking up our infan-
organization commander. try formations. At this time the antiaircraft units are
busily engaged in repelling the attacks of enemy air-
craft, particularly dive bombers, which open the way
British AA Gets Tough for the tanks.
On lonely gun sites around Britain's coast, in camps In the second phase, after enemy tanks have broken
scattered over moorlands and plains, thousands of anti- into the initial line of defense or deeper, the enemy
aircraftmen, longing for action, are today being tough- aviation generally shifts its attack to counterattacking
ened and trained into a formidable army of storm troops. or reserve units. In this comparative lull antiaircraft
They are learning to scale cliffs under machine-gun guns fire at the German tanks by direct laying; the more
fire, to swim rivers with rifle and full battle kit slung point blank the range, the more effective the fire.
from their shoulders, to fight on the beaches, in the It must always be remembered, however, that the
streets,in forests and jungles. prime function of antiaircraft artillery is against planes.
It is part of a new two-point plan: In areas where there is insufficient antitank artillery,
1. To banish the word "defense" from the British antiaircraft guns must be employed to drive off tanks
Army vocabulary, switch emphasis to "attack." which approach the battery positions or threaten to
2. To tune every man to commando fitness, inspire break up the battle formations of our troops.
the commando spirit. In order to successfully combat enemy mechanized
forces the antiaircraft artillery must prepare its antitank
On a blackboard in a trestled room with a northwest defense in advance. When the guns go into position
sea view there is a notice: "Attack! Get them before they must be ready to open fire against attacking tanks
theyget you." immediately. To establish such a system it is necessary
Officersand NCO's go to school there twelve hours a to:
day, seven days a week, for the period of the course. (1) Make a complete study of the surrounding ter-
Then they go back to their units to "preach the gospel." rain, particularly as regards possible tank approaches;
The oldest pupil is 47-year-old gum-chewing Ser- (2) Determine the sector of fire for each gun, in-
geant Herbert Clark, from Hull, soldier in World War cluding ranges to key reference points;
No.1, father of a Royal Marine, an antiaircraft gunner, (3) Build the minimum amount of field fortifica-
and an army physical training instructor.
tions necessary;
Stripped to the waist, in a bleak wind blowing in off (4) Establish special antitank observation points.
thesea, Sergeant Clark stood in a row with seven others.
They tossed a ISO-pound tree trunk into the air, caught All antiaircraft personnel not working at the guns
it as it fell. In full battle kit, he squirmed along a rope during a tank attack take up positions in the vicinity and
slungsixteen feet above the ground between two trees. use hand grenades, gasoline bottles, or armor-piercing
He dived fully clothed into the swimming pool to bullets against the enemy tanks.-Red Star.
84 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-Octoher
One for Us- ordered on July 22 by the Commanding General, Serv-
LONDON,Aug. ll.-Britain took her Avro Lancaster ices of Supply, with a twofold purpose as follows:
off the secret list today and British aeronautics writers 1. To decentralize further the operation of activities
quickly hailed the battle-tested machine as the biggest of the Services of Supply by increasing the authority of
and fastest heavy bomber in the world. commanding generals in the field and by giving them
The newly-unveiled giant, like its famous teammate proportionately increased responsibility.
in raids on Germany-the Short Stirling-carries an 2. To improve and streamline the field organizations
eight-ton bomb load, but its pace of 300 miles per hour by eliminating duplicating facilities.
and up is better than the Stirling's. The Lancaster is The Service Commands supervise the Army camps
armed with ten .303 caliber machine guns mounted in and posts, service the troops with supplies and equip-
four power turrets. ment, induct the new selectees, and generally handle
It has a maximum range of 3,000 miles, a thousand the administrative details necessary to maintaining a
more than the Stirling, and is thus the prime weapon large Army.
for bold raids on selected targets deep in Germany. Its Comprehensive instructions have been issued to all
first officially disclosed operation was the daring day- commanding generals in the new Service Commands,
light raid on Augsburg last April 17. redefining and redesignating duties, in order that their
In July several Lancaster squadrons made the longest supply and administrative functions may be geared com-
daylight attack Hight of the European war-l,750 miles pletely to wartime operation.
through bad weather to bomb the Danzig submarine The administration and housekeeping of all troops in
yards. the respective areas is now centered in the new Service
The Lancaster's weight is thirty tons. It has a wing Commands. Under the new plan, money will be al-
spread of 102 feet and a thirty-three-foot bomb compart- lotted in one lump sum to each Service Command.
ment. Formerly money was allotted to each of the units within
And One for Them the Corps Area by its parent unit in Washington. This
change will result in extensive simplification of fiscal
BERLIN (from German broadcasts), Aug. 8.-Ger- and accounting work.
man newspapers published for the first time today pic- There will be no change in the geographical boun-
tures and descriptions of a new Nazi warplane-the daries, the new Service Commands covering the same
Dornier 217-said to be the last word in dive bombers. territory as the old Corps Areas. The numerals used to
From press descriptions the new plane appears to be designate the Corps Areas will also be continued, so that
a modification of the DO-215 and the later DO-I? the First Corps Area will now be known as the First
Adolf Hitler's newspaper V oelkischer Beobachter de- Service Command. Since October 8, 1940, Corps Area
clared, however, that the DO-217 had a bomb-carrying commanders have had no tactical responsibility. That
capacity "several times larger" than those planes and a responsibility continues to rest with the Ground Forces
much greater cruising capacity. and Air Forces officers.
(The DO-215 and the DO-17 are twin-engined In effect, the reorganization creates nine autonomous
monoplanes with a maximum bomb capacity of Services of Supply in the field, each to function under
2,200 pounds, a range of 750 miles, top speed of the direction of the Commanding General, Services of
275 miles per hour and a ceiling of 26,000 feet.) Supply in Washington, but each a self-functioning unit
responsible for servicing the troops of each area.
Full details of the DO-217-which is powered with
two 14-cylinder 1,600 horsepower engines-were not
given, but the German radio said it was "heavily armed Fortieth Renewal
and equipped with the most modern technical equip-
There are few, if any, JOURNALsubscribers who can
ment, guaranteeing the highest performance under any
match the record of Major General William H. Wilson.
weather conditions."-Associated Press.
U.S.A. (Ret.), who on September 19 sent your maga-
zine his fortieth renewal of his subscription. General
Wilson accepted appointment as a Second Lieutenant
Now-Service Commands of Artillery on October 29, 1901, and subscribed to the
Reorganization of the nine Corps Areas of the Army, JOURNALat about the same time. His record as a sub-
and redesignation of them as "Service Commands," was scriber has been unbroken during that period.
Trinidad
By Clzaplaill lVilliam M. Latta
The Harbor Defense of Trinidad presents a varied Long hours of alert and stand-to make early to bed
problem. The terrain is mountainous at one end and necessary. So for most of us, at night, it's eat, get the
Rat on the other. \Vhere one crew has great trouble mail, write a letter, go to the picture show, bed and
getting their guns and equipment straight up into the after two winks up for duty again. The nights are cool
air, another is down in the steaming jungle with the enough to be very comfortable. It's not as }1othere as a
mosquitoes. \Vhile these animals are not as large as the Georgia summer, and the nights are much cooler. The
bi-motor jobs which grow in the swamps of Georgia rainy season is on now and everything gets mildewed
and swarm over Fort Screven and Camp Stewart, there overnight and brass tarnishes easily. The rains while
are more of them and they are very persistent. Some of
them are malaria-bearing and quite nasty. The control
units are doing an excellent job and will improve con-
ditions gradually. Everyone sleeps under mosquito bars.
Head nets and gloves must be worn at night in some
of the camps.
Along the northern edge of Trinidad the land rises
sharply into mountains 500 to 3,100 feet high and falls
directly into the sea. Excellent gun positions and ob-
servation stations can be obtained along the heights.
The cover is good, and all positions may be easily con-
cealed from observation by air or sea. A problem is the
hit-and-run submarine, which steals in through the
night, pops up out of the water, throws six or seven
shells into what it hopes is a position, then drops out of
sight, being on the surface about two minutes. Position
finding by the old methods is too slow for this kind of
attack. So new ones are developed to meet this menace.
Beach defense for all possible landing places is or-
ganized.
Living quarters are adequate and comfortable. The
food is good, and there is plenty of it. Picture shows,
books, magazines and papers are provided in sufficient
quantities, baseball and softball are difficult in many
places, but one of our units won the softball champion-
ship of the sector in spite of it. Mail service is very good
and is a great morale booster. Dances and parties are
provided at regular intervals for the men. The men
take a great deal of interest in their new homes. They
collect stones to make walks. Small footbridges of
bamboo adorn many of the camps. Mangoes, coconuts,
pineapples, limes, and other tropical fruits grow in the
camp areas in some places and the men have developed Coast Artillerymen where the going is tough.
great liking for these fruits, mangoes especially. Photo by Signal Corps, U. S. Army
~
86 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October

Sunrise services in the jungle. Photo by Signal Corl'8. U. S. J rmy

hard are of short duration and do not seem to impede discriminate picture taking is, of course, out, and the
travel or any other thing that must be done. heat makes developing and printing difficult if not im-
Monotony is the great enemy of morale. The same- possible for the average soldier. Developing equipment
ness of climate and of duty make it hard on those who cannot be carried about, nor is there space available to
do not have sufficient imagination or talent to contrive set up dark rooms. Films must be iced to be developed.
new amusements to fill any spare moments. As time The radio is very popular, and there are enough of them
goes on, new hobbies and crafts will have to be encour- provided to add variety of program. And, except for not
aged among the men to replace old ones which cannot being in the States, these camps would compare favor-
be carried on in this climate. Because of censorship in- ably in comfort with any there.

Does the JOURNAL have your present address? It's up


to you; your magazine does not receive copies of special
orders.
---------
New York-Philadelphia Sector

BRIGr\DIER GE;\,ERAL RALPH E. HAI~ES, COlllmal/di/lg

By Captain 'V. F. Madisoll


Target practices have held the major part of the A release from Fort Hancock reveals several notes of
SI)otlioht in the trainino activities of the New York- interest concerning this structure .
. '" '"
Philadelphia Sector for the past month. Competition "The famous Sandy Hook Lighthouse, oldest stand-
between the Subsectors and among the units thus en- ing structure of its kind in the country, was blacked
gaged has been especially high, with each organization out for the first time in more than 166 years. The light
not only working for a coveted Superior rating but also has shone continuously from the time it was first lighted
aoainst each other for tOI) honors. One batten' with a in 1764 until a few weeks ago-with one exception.
'"
score of 194.7 has the b~st record made within this
.
That was a night in 1776, when Captain John Conover,
Sector as this goes to press. a Revolutionary \Var patriot, climbed the 90-foot
Incidentally, this particular organization will be seen tower and smashed the light in an effort to hamper
br manv Coast Artillervmen in the future since their British ships making their way past Sandy Hook into
b;ttery ~"as the location" selected for a 12" BC training New York Harbor."
film recently made by the Training Film Production This time, however, the light was blacked out for
Unit. exactly the opposite reason-to comply with dimout
The site of a new 8-inch railwav riRe in this Sector regulations and assure the safe conduct of British ships
was a setting for a nationwide radio broadcast on the (and all shipping) into New York Harbor.
Amw Hour recentlv. This broadcast was a featured A recent visitor within the Sector was Lieutenant
porti~n of the hour "program which was sent by short General Hugh A Drum, Commanding General of the
wa\'e to all foreign countries. Bill Stern, the sports an- Eastern Defense Command and the First Army. He was
nouncer, described the entire action involved in the accompanied by the Sector Commander, Brigadier Gen-
loading, laying and firing of this new type 8" riRe. eral Ralph E. Haines, on his inspection.
Numerous schools have been conducted within the Another visitor recently was Miss Nancy Carroll,
Sector. However, the Chemical \Varfare Schools-one stage and screen star-but for an entirely different rea-
in each Subsector-have been among the most success- son. Miss Carroll spent a week at Fort Hancock re-
ful. Units within the Subsectors sent officers and non- hearsing for the Fort Hancock theater section presenta-
commissioned officers to these schools for qualification tion of the Broadway hit, Mr. and Mrs. North (need-
as gas officers, noncommissioned officers and gas sen- less to say, the show was quite a success). Evidently
tries. Organizational instruction was also given for the Miss Carroll made quite an impression on the soldiers
units stationed at the forts where the schools were held. stationed there as one battery named one of their favor-
A Nazi propaganda agency recently furnished an ite guns Nancy Carroll and the actress christened the
item of interest to this Sector. Accordino o to a Berlin gun in person.
broadcast, a Nazi sailor bv the name of Zimmerman, A great deal of interest is being shown in boxing
who landed from a submarine, attacked and put out the throughout the Sector. There have been some excellent
Sandy Hook Lighthouse by throwing hand grenades boxing shows which included exhibitions by well known
at the 400-ft. tower, says a recent writeup in Yank, the professionals at several posts and camps, and reports of
Army newspaper. The Nazi agency, however, failed to the increased participation of soldiers in this sport have
reveal what Fort Hancock's twenty-four-hour alert bat- come into this headquarters. Recreation officers see this
teries, beach patrols and lookouts were doing when the as a direct result of the emphasis being placed upon
submarine popped up within range of their guns-an physical conditioning and the recognition of the need,
event to which more than one gunner has been looking not only for teamwork-so necessary to the Coast Artil-
forward for the past eight months. They also neglected lervman-but also for individual initiative and action
to reveal how the ninetv-foot structure known as the in ~varfare as seen in other countries todav.
Sandy Hook Lighthouse 'had grown to a 400-foot tower The purchase of \Var Bonds by office~s and enlisted
and failed completely to explain how their Herr Zim- personnel has taken a big jump since the pay raise be-
merman had managed to put out a light that had been came effective. Fort Hancock reports that almost $32,-
extinguished some time before-in compliance with 000 each month is pledged for \Var Bonds and Stamps
dimout regulations. at that post.
Corregidor
The Filipino Soldier in Bataan*
By Major General Basilio J. Valdes, Philippine Army
Although nearly 36,000 Americans and Filipinos are at the beach. The artillery promptly replied so effect-
today prisoners of the Japanese as the result of the in- ively that the Aeet steamed on up the coast. The test
,'asion of the Philippines, the four months of fighting was repeated again and again, and each time the con-
that preceded the fall of Corregidor did not, in my voy was met by a fire too hot to risk landing. Not
estimation, constitute a national defeat. To the con- until the warships reached the I1ocos coast were they
trary, in many respects the Filipino proved that he was able to put their troops ashore. \Ve had run out of
a better man than his Japanese adversary. artillery and were unable to defend the I1ocos beach.
I am convinced that, had the Philippine Army pos- A similar situation occurred along the coastline south
sessed adequate aircraft, we would still be fighting the of l\'lanila Bay. Brigadier General Vicente Lim, com-
Japanese in Luzon today. manding general of the 41st Division, had sufficient
A oreat
I:>
deal has been written about the valor of the artillery on the Batangas coast to prevent enemy land-
[\merican troops in the Philippines. I want to take this ings there. The Japanese had to reroute their transports
opportunity to reiterate my admiration for the gallantry, to an undefended bay farther south.
the courage, and the dogged determination shown by Long before the war started, many of us realized that
the soldiers from the United States. Far from their the Philippine Army was deficient in two fields. The
own homes, they did a job that will live forever in his- first was the serious shortage of sufficiently trained offi-
tory. Less has been published, however, about the Fili- cers. The Philippine Military Academy, the \\Test
pinos who comprised five-
sixths of our forces in Luzon.
Their work was no less ex-
emplary.
The men of the Philippine
i\rmy showed some surprising
points of strength, and some
not-so-surprising weaknesses.
For instance, our men devel-
oped into excellent artillery
teams. They were quick to
learn, they stood up well un-
der fire, and their marksman-
ship was remarkable. Colo-
nel \\1m. C. Braly, the Amer-
ican officer in charge of anti-
aircraft artillery on Bataan,
told me he had two outstand-
ing batteries. One was a Na-
tional Guard unit from Cali-
fornia and the other was from
the Philippine Army.
Philippine coast artillery
played an important part in
OUrbeach defenses. Batteries
of the 21st Division under
Brigadier General Mateo Ca-
pinpin were guarding the
shores of Lingayen Gulf,
north of Manila, when the
Japanese made their first at-
tempt to land there. To test
the defenses, the Japanese

-
warships fired a few rounds

h
*Reprinted

I e editors.
from Philippines.
'W ashington, D. C, by permission of
~
90 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL Septem ber-October

Point of the Philippines. graduated about 100 officers was experienced. ruthless and seemingly fearless. Our
a year, but this number was insufficient to meet the young fighters were always at a disadvantage against
n~eds of a citizen army growing at the rate of 40,000 this kind of opposition. Only the Philippine Scout so]-
annually. \ Ve crganized schools for reserve officers, but diers. whose long years of training had made them just
this w;s not en~tireh' successful because those that as tough and fearless, were a match for the long-term
should have attended were not always able to leave Japanese soldiers.
their jobs for the period of time nec~ssary for proper But there was another type in the Nipponese army.
training. In an effort to solve this problem, the Presi- He was the recent conscript, the grocery clerk or fish-
dent

issued an Executive Order makino 0_ it compulsory erman hurriedh' called into service. He had little ad-
for college students to complete four years of R.O.T.G vantage in poi~t of training or experience. J\lan for
training. Graduates were automatically appointed third man, our Filipino fighters generally had him beaten
lieutenants in the Philippine Army Reserve, and as- before the battle started.
signed to reserve units. The Filipino soldier was seldom over-awed by the
The overwhelming majority of our soldiers had only juggernaut opposing him.
five and a half months of training. A few had served "Sir, please get us some planes," they begged me
up to a year. All had been hurriedly called from ci- when I visited them on Bataan. H\Ve'1I1ick those Japs."
vilian life. As a matter of fact the Philippine Army is I am quite convinced that had I been able to produce
essentially a citizen army. Inevitably, such men were those planes. they would have done it.
easily confused-even panicked-in the early stages of For all its tragedy, the invasion of the Philippines
the fighting. This was particularly true because they has shown us the path we must take when peace returns
were called upon to engage in the hardest maneuver to our homeland. Our program of national defense,
of modern warbre-a fighting withdrawal before over- planned by General l\lacArthur, approved by Presi-
whelming enemy superiority. It was a miracle that they dent Quezon, and successfullv carried out bv the
were not disorganized completely in the first week of United States Military i'vlission'to the Philippin~s and
war. the General Staff of the Philippine Army, has been
I take a great deal of pride in saying that they were sound. \\7e must continue our system of universal
not disorganized. They never ceased to be an army able military training, in \\'hich the wealthy boy serves side-
to deal out punishment. The Filipino recruit quickly bv-sid; with the son of the farmer an~1 of -the common
developed into a tough, courageous fighter. ];borer. The air force must be enlarged, of course.
I am occasionally asked how the individual Filipino Experience has proved the value of our coast artillery:
soldier measured up to his opponent. JVly answer is, we must expand that, too. \Vith these alterations in our
"Verv favorab]v." national defense program-and given time to build up
V/e found ;ve had to fight two types of Japanese. the industrial plant that must support it-the Philip-
One was the man who had campaigned in China; he pines will be able to defend its shores.

New England Sector

J\ IAJOR GENEHAL K. T. BLOOD, Commanding

By Captain Joseph R. McCormick

New Eng]and Sector, like all other Sectors, has ex- missioned cadres. In their places we are now receiving
perienced many changes since its last appearance in the graduates from the Officer Candidate Schools. The
JOURNAL. i\llajor Genera] Thomas A. Terry left us to fact that we have been losing officers in the grade of
take over the Second Service Command (then the Sec- Captain and higher has made it possible to promote
ond Corps Area) on April 30, 1942. During the interim junior officers to fill the vacancies. As a result, we ha\'e
between the departure of General Terry and the ar- adopted the habit of carefully scrutinizing the shoulders
rival of Brigadier General K. T. Blood, the Sector was of an individual before we address him, just to make
under the temporary command of Brigadier General R. sure that we don't make the fatal slip of "deranking"
F. Cox of the Boston Subsector. an officer.
The formation of new Antiaircraft units found us This rapidly expanding army has also made itself felt
furnishing officers experienced in AA to form the com- in the enlisted ranks. Scores of candidates are dispatched
19.J.2 COAST ARTILLERY ACTIVITIES 91

monthlyto various Officer Candidate Schools. It is only provided the personnel with a wealth of experience.
natural that those holding noncommissioned rank, and One interesting feature of such a firing was the total
whoare in key positions, are the ones who seem to go. evacuation of civilians in the vicinity of a new battery.
This constant shift has brought out many a gray hair in This measure \'Vastaken as a safety precaution to in-
the heads of our officerswho are attempting to maintain sure that the field of fire was safe, and that no civilians
an efficientorganization. No sooner is a man trained to would be in danger of injury. All persons were moved
ajob than he is on his way to school. The nerve-racking in army vehicles, and invalids were moved to nearby
circleof finding another replacement and training him hospitals by army ambulances. After the completion of
goeson and on. the firing, these people were again returned to their
Since late June all Harbor Defenses have been con- homes. The whole move brought commendation from
ductingfunctional, calibration, and service firing. Many civil and military authorities for the thoughtfulness and
practiceshave been completed, and gratifying results efficiencyof the move.
in performance of personnel and materiel have been The batteries in the Sector which have not fired their
attained. Several recent installations have been fired service practice are trying to do so, and only await the
for the first time since their emplacement, and have proper weather in order to carry out their program.

Southern California Sector


Colonel W. W. Hicks, Commanding Officer of talent, the two canteens (one on the Upper Reservation
HDLA, was one of the principal speakers at a huge and one at Middleside) boast "The Most Beautiful
MacArthur Day celebration held in Los Angeles in K.P's in the World." Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer gener-
June. Famed Westlake Park was renamed during the ously turned over all receipts from the premiere of its
ceremony and now bears the. name MacArthur Park. picture Mrs. Miniver, which was held at Los Angeles'
Fort MacArthur is named after General Douglas Mac- Cathay Circle Theatre, to the VACS, for maintenance
Arthur's fighting father, General Arthur MacArthur, of the canteens. The premiere was quite military, for
and around this fact, Colonel Hicks built his talk. members of the garrison were on hand, acting both as
Every qualified enlisted man in this command escort guards and honor guards, and the show was
(HDLA) either has gone or is going to an Officer Can- opened with a ceremony featuring the Fort MacArthur
didate School. More than 250 enlisted men have al- color guard. General Maxwell Murray, commanding
readyleft this Command for Officer Training Schools Southern California Sector, was guest of honor.
in Seacoast Artillery, Antiaircraft, Armored Force, The Yardbird Revue, a mobile theater unit, run by
Quartermaster, Chemical Warfare, Signal Corps, Ord- and for the enlisted men, has been making the rounds
nance, Engineer, Infantry, Adjutant General, Field of Southern California's Army and Navy outposts. Con-
Artillery, and Cavalry. Unit commanders have been ceived by Sergeant Johnny Walker, the all-soldier cast
sellingtheir men on the advantages of being commis- gives a two-hour variety performance that is adjudged
sioned officers, and Fort MacArthur men have been by all who see the show as "very professional. The
responding-wholeheartedly. Yardbirds, who are becoming regular troupers with
The Volunteer Army Canteen Service, which was their one-night stands, have played to more than 50,000
organizedsoon after Pearl Harbor by a group of promi- people in the few months they have been in existence.
nent Hollywood women, continues to render an in- Some of the audiences range as high as 5,000, while at
valuableservice in maintaining its two canteens for the some of the outposts, the troupe entertains but fifteen
benefitof th~ enlisted men. Envious eyes are cast Fort men. And take it from Sergeant Walker, those fifteen
MacArthur-ward, for almost every evening some celeb- men get a bigger "bang" out of it than the larger audi-
rity is on hand to entertain the soldier as he sips the ences.
free coffee and dunks the donated doughnuts, so gra- War Bond sales boomed along at Fort MacArthur
ciouslyfurnished by the ladies. Among the celebrities due, in part. to an active Bond Officer, and a clever
toappear have been Lana Turner, Jack Benny ,Tommy cartoonist. Private Lou Goldberg, staff artist for the
Dorsey,Claudette Colbert, Irving Berlin, Joan Bennett, Fort MacArthur Alert, weekly publication of the post,
Fifi D'Orsay, Charles Boyer, Red Skelton, Jerry was presented \\,ith a citation from Secretary of T reas-
Cooper, Gracie Allan, Basil Rathbone, Harry Fields, ury Morge!lthau for his inspiring cartoons which run
CobinaWright, and many others. Besides this array of \\'eeklv in the Alert and daily in the N etllS Bulletin.
- -
Southern Sector

BRIGADIER GEXERAL HAROLD F. LOOl\IIS, Comma1ldi1lg,


By Major Robert L Hood, ]r.

Highlighting events in the Southern Sector during emphasized the necessity for individual and small unit
the summer months were intensive. training programs, training.
target practices, both small arms and seacoast arma- l\lembers of Coast Artillery regiments at Fort l\loul-
ment, a tactical training inspection of all sector troops, trie are now sleeping in barracks and eating in mess
varied recreational programs and events, the completion halls as a result of the construction program recenth.
of extensive construction projects, and Field Artillery completed. Due to a shortage of housing and messin~
batteries usin$! ~
coast artillery, methods firino-
I:>
at towed facilities a number of units had been forced to live i~
water targets. tents. Included in the program at Fort Taylor was an
An interesting phase of training at Fort 1\loultrie R B-1 type recreation building complete with movie-
was seen recentlv, when a harbor defense reo-iment projection room, stage and dressing rooms. Personnel
I:>
paraded before a staff of noncommissioned officers. The are anticipating eagerly the fom1al opening of this
officers of the regiment had turned the troops over to the building as a post theater and also as a suitable place to
noncommissioned officers for drill and parade and stage future u.s.a. entertainment units.
viewed the ceremony from the spectators row. This "Get in the Scrap" is not a by-word for civilians only
type of ceremony was designed to instill efficiency, as was proved recently when four 9.2-inch British
leadership and initiative in those men who someday \Vorld \Var Howitzers, four lO-inch rifles, D.C., and
may be called upon for these requisites on the battle- 100 pre-Civil vVar cannon balls were scrapped for
field. Similiar drills and ceremonies will be conducted remelting purposes. The cannon balls and howitzers
frequently. The above ceremony was a result of the had been used for years as ornament pieces at Fort
special training course for noncommissioned officers Moultrie, while the lO-inch rifles ancl cannon were re-
now in progress at Fort l\'loultrie. All phases of basic moved from Fort Taylor.
training are covered in these classes which meet four A concerted effort is being made by all artillery offi-
nights a week. In addition, schools in seacoast gunnery cers at Fort Taylor to develop as many emergency fire
and fire control are underway at Forts lvloultrie and control systems as possible. As a result of this, several
Taylor for all battery officers. radically new fire control systems have been developed.
Each battery now has several emergency systems and
A tactical training inspection was held during the
each gun pit has at least one system which it can use
month of July of Harbor Defense and Combat Team
without relying on anyone or anything outside the pit.
units within the Southern Sector for the purpose of
The adage "Something new every day" proved correct
testing thoroughness of training and alertness of the during July and August when two Field Artillery bat-
command. Alerts and exercises combined with spot teries attached to Southern Sector fired a portion of
questions asked of individual soldiers were used to test their annual target practice allowance at towed water
the readiness of the units for their mission. In general, targets. Excellent results were obtained by using a
units carried the alerts and exercises through to a suc- combination of coast and field artillery methods. A de-
cessful conclusion but the problem of training the in- scription of the methods used will appear in a separate
dividual soldier was revived again. This inspection article.
Camp Tyson

BRIGADIER GENERAL JOHN B. J'VIAYNARD, Commanding

Barrage Balloon Training Center


By Liel/tenant Colonel James B. lVIankin

In July, General IVlaynard left Camp Tyson on an have been conducted. The obstacle course, which was
official tour of two weeks' duration. On this tour he completed in the latter part of June, has been in con-
observed the training of barrage balloon field units stant use in toughening officers and men for field duty.
which had formerly been stationed at Camp Tyson. He On the evening of August 16, the formal Dedicatory
was accompanied by Squadron Leader Frank L. Brad- Program and opening dance of the new' usa Club in
shaw of the British Royal Air Force. Since the barrage Paris, Tennessee, were held in the usa Club rooms.
balloon is one of the newest arms, it is considered neces- Generall\'Iaynard was the guest speaker and expressed
sarythat close contact, as to training procedure, be main- appreciation for the new soldiers' recreational center
tained between field units and the Barrage Balloon and accepted the hospitality of the usa on behalf of
Training Center for the purpose of uniformity of train- the personnel of Camp Tyson.
mg. The M IIsical Salute from Camp Tyson by the Post
. Squadron Leader Bradshaw, who has just recently Band is now broadcast regularly each \V'ednesday eve-
left Camp Tyson, was stationed here for the past sev- ning from 7:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. over station \iVSM,
eral weeks as an instructor and lecturer, showing how Nashville, Tennessee. \V'SM is a clear-channel sta-
the barrage balloons were used in England under tion and the program has been heard by persons in dis-
actual battle conditions. He went to France early in tant states. Also, on July 30, Camp Tyson went on the
1940 with the first barrage balloon unit to leave Eng- air over a nation-wide 1\1utual Broadcasting hook-up
land. His squadron was isolated after the fall of Dun- through the facilities of station WMPS, Memphis,
kirk and its personnel was forced to find their way Tennessee. This was in the form of a musical salute
through central France to St. Nazaire where they em- and a short interview by Colonel Parry "V. Lewis,
barked for England. After returning to England his Commandant, Barrage Balloon School, on the use and
squadron was immediately assigned to guarding vital purpose of barrage balloons.
installations. It was the benefit of this wide experience Three usa outdoor camp shows have performed at
that he brought to the Barrage Balloon Training Center. Camp Tyson recently: the Roxy Revue on July 27;
Colonel John H. Cochran, Coast ArtilIery Corps was Jeannette MacDonald sang on August 3; and Full
assigned to the Barrage Balloon Training Center as Speed Ahead on August 26. These shows have been
Executive Officer. He arrived and assumed his duties greatly enjoyed and have attracted very large crowds.
OnJuly 17, coming here from Virginia Polytechnic In- Inclement weather prevented Miss MacDonald from
stitute where he was professor of Military Science and singing outdoors, so she very graciously volunteered to
Tactics and Commandant of Cadets for the past four give two performances in the Post Theater in addition
years. to a previous performance at the Post Hospital. The
The excellent weather for the past few months has show Full Speed Ahead was produced in the newly-
greatly facilitated the training of the command. In completed Amphitheater which was built in a natural
addition to the operational barrage balloon training, depression and rushed to completion in time for this
many long cross-country marches and night problems show.
Coast Artillery Crew in Newfoundland Regana.

Newfoundland
By Major Robert J . Wood
Those who characterized Newfoundland weather as pies the minds of all military personnel here as well as
"annoying" (and I was certainly one) have had to eat elsewhere. Coast Artillery armament is constantly
their words after a grand summer. Bright, sunny manned and gunners itch to shoot at something other
weather, which had been believed to be the exception than targets.
rather than the rule, has predominated during the past Target practices, incidentally, will be completed by
few months. Vacationists-in happier days-travel hun- the time this appears in print. All batteries have done
dreds of miles to enjoy such a pleasant climate. well, and some have done particularly well.
As a result, Coast Artillery units on duty here have Distinguished guests have not been uncommon in
been able to enjoy outdoor sports in their spare time. Newfoundland. Through the airports have come Gen-
These have included not only traditional American eral G. C. Marshall, Lieutenant General H. H. Arnold,
games, but considerable fishing, a sport dear to the Admirals King and Towers, the Russian Commissar, V.
hearts of many people. Molotov, Mr. I-Iarry Hopkins and j'vIr. Steve Early, to
Newfoundland's waters-both salt and fresh-abound mention a few.
in game fish. A short distance from any of the Ameri- Lieutenant General Hugh A. Drum, Commanding
can stations it is possible to take out the old rod and General, Eastern Defense Command, accompanied by
reel and throw the flv where one can be certain of a several of his staff, made a recent inspection trip and
strike .. expressed himself as satisfied with the Coast Artillery
Mr. Lee \Vulff, explorer, sportsman, outdoor enthusi- installations and personnel.
ast, is one of Newfoundland's staunchest advocates. He As this is beino written Newfoundland is honored
o '
spends part of every year in the island and much of his bv the visit of The Earl of Athlone, Governor-General
stay in the field or stream. Most of the garrison has of Canada and the Princess Alice. American troops
been priveleged to see his 16mm films-done in Techni- participated in a review for him, along with representa-
color-of caribou and moose hunting. and salmon and tives of all allied forces stationed in this island. After-
tuna fishing. Some have had the opportunity of ac- wards, he made an inspection of Fort Pepperrell, in-
companying him to streams on fishing trips. cluding Coast Artillery positions ..
These few hours of recreation only point out what u.s.a. Camp Shows continue to visit the ~arnsod
lies in store for a possible peacetime garrison which at reoular intervals brinoing a bit of Amenca an
o ' 0 f
will have more time to devote to sports and recreation Broadway to troops which are so near and yet so ar.
than do the present units. Permanent construction on The St. John's u.s.a. Club, under its Director, ~Ir.
the American posts is far enough along to indicate what Clifford Cunningham, carries on its work which is one
the stations will look like when they are completed. of the greatest morale factors on the island. Dances.
Newfoundland will be a choice detail, believe me. picnics, swimming parties (the water's cold but, Y~'
Just now, of course, this \Vorld unpleasantness occu- it is possible to swim!) bingo nights, and above all, t e
1942 COAST ARTILLERY ACTIVITIES 95
Club's excellent cuisine, have been featured this sum- Newfoundlanders have always had a high regard for
mer. Americans and, generally speaking, this regard has im-
One of the Coast Artillerv Units here held its first proved, rather than diminished since the arrival of the
Organization Day celebratio~ recently. As its command- troops.
ing officer commented: It \\'as not unusual for most of Still another reason-and a very important one-is
the officerspresent at the dinner to go to such affairs. It the natural friendliness of the Newfoundlanders, or the
was unusual, however, to be present at a first Organiza- "Newfies," as our boys now call them. The natural
tion Day. The unit was organized in Newfoundland curiosity of the Newfies regarding our troops is ex-
and has seen all of its service here. Its approved coat ceeded only by the latter's interest in them and their
of arms contains a likeness of famed Cabot Tower, customs.
named after the discoverer of the island and noted as Another factor entering into this "acclimatization"
the location of one end of Marconi's first trans-Atlantic of the American boys is the way in which the troops are
wireless transmission. constantly e:x]Josedto local influences-on their frequent
A local celebration at St. John's in which Coast Ar- visits to St. Johns, through their acquaintances there,
tillerymen participated was "Regatta Day." This is a and through the Newfoundland press and radio sta-
time-honored holiday in a country which goes in for its tions. Both local newspapers and radio stations have a
holidays in a big way. No trains ran, no newspaper was large audience among the troops and they have come
printed, no stores opened. The entire population turned to look upon the city's dailies almost as their home town
out en masse to the shores of Quidi Vidi Lake, adjoin- papers.
ing Fort Pepperrell, to witness boat races, engage in All these factors have made for a relationship between
games of chance and in general, enjoy an outing. The soldiers and the resident population, which, although
shore was lined with hastily erected bazaar stands. In it has been ruffled at times by scattered and unavoid-
fact, the affair reminded one of Epsom Downs, Ken- able incidents, is highly praiseworthy. It is the "good
tucky Derby, Poughkeepsie Regatta, Barnum and neighbor policy" at its best.
Bailey and Ringling Brothers Circus, a County Fair Hardly a public social affair in town is seen these
and a Block Carnival rolled into one. To the Newfound. days withollt men of the United States Army in at-
landers, it represented just about all of those things too. tendance. Both enlisted men and officers have been
The races-in four and six oared shells-included one taken up by local society en masse.
for American troops and one for the combined allied Fifty years ago band concerts were quite the thing in
forces.A crew from one Coast Artillery battery (includ- the United States on a Sunday summer afternoon.
ing a former Harvard oarsman) ran off with the Ameri- Most of the present generation of Americans know
can Championship and was a close second to the New- this only through hearsay, but in Newfoundland today
foundland Militia veterans in the finale. Navy crews some of them at least are discovering what a pleasant
failed to uphold their traditions. way to spend an afternoon this can be. Newfound-
After a year and a half in Newfoundland, the Ameri- landers love band music, and soldiers are partial to it
can forces which were sent here are playing an increas- also. On Sunday afternoons, and on the summer eve-
inglv large role in the social and recreational life of the nings, when it remains light until 10:00 or 10:30
nearby communities during their off hours. 0'clock, the park is dotted with soldiers and their dates
This close relationship between American soldiers listening to the music or strolling around greeting
and a foreign population is probably more in evidence friends. This is something they wouldn't think of do-
at the bases in Newfoundland than at any others which ing in the 'States, because few others do it. Here, it is
the United States Army has established, for a variety the natural thing to do.
of reasons. The soldiers are acquiring some of the habits of the
In the first place, the Newfoundland base was the Newfies also. Since drivers in Newfoundland keep to
firstoverseas post to be occupied by an American Expe- the left of the road, as in England, the American bases
ditionary Force in World War II. U. S. troops came have adopted that custom. It is believed this is the
here in January, 1941, when their country was still only North American locality in which this rule exists.
technically at peace, and have had plenty of time since Walking is a Newfoundland specialty, and this has
to get acquainted with the island and its people. found favor with the United States troops. A sergeant
Another reason why the American boys are fitting so told me that back in New York with a date he would
well into life here is because the people of Newfound- often take a cab to go a few blocks. Here the boys walk
land are closer to the United States in spirit than the miles through the city and its environs, as the New-
people at almost any other Army Overseas post. The foundlanders do, and think little of it.
Fort Sheridan
GENERALLARHETI L. STUART,Commanding AATC
BRIGADIER
By Captain Frmd<.IvI. Dailey
This is the first news letter in the COASTARTILLERY three mile stretch of sandy beach, many steep ravines,
JOURNAL from the Antiaircraft Artillery Training and an exceedingly difficult obstacle course provide
Center at Fort Sheridan. However, the fact that this is many of the training aids which are required for phys-
a comparatively new organization does not mean that it ical training. Great stress is also placed on teaching the
was not swift in getting off to a good start. The training men to live comfortably in the field. To this end all
center was activated on March 26th at which time there troops are required to spend at least one night each
were but a few troops coming under the jurisdiction week in bivouac with at least two meals served in the
of this headquarters. Since that day in March when the field. Towards the end of the training period all units
organization was born much has happened. Shortly can sling their packs and spend a night in their pup
after activation Brigadier General LaRhett L. Stuart tents on a moment's notice and with as much ease and
took command and officers to compose his staff began comfort as they find in barracks.
to arrive ready for the task of training new regiments A great deal of assistance has been obtained from the
and separate battalions for field service. Now only a Civil Air Patrol. As yet the Air Corps has not assigned
few short months later this post is busy with the ever- a tow target squadron to the training center, but the
growing task of training antiaircraft troops. Almost civilians have most ably filled the gap. Due to the rela-
since the day of activation the post seemed to take on a tively low horsepower of civilian planes as compared to
new appearance, an appearance caused by all of the of- Army planes many problems had to be met and over-
ficers and men knowing that they were preparing for come before towing was successful. A scheme has nO\\"
the deadly game of war, and the realization that the been worked out by which the difficulty of getting off
training that they were getting here would in a few the ground with the target has been overcome ..An in-
short months be put to an advantageous use on the far- genious release device has been developed since it is
flung battlefields of this world conflict. necessary to drop the tow line at the completion of the
Realizing that training time is all too short, every ef- mission. The Civil Air Patrol pilots fly like veterans.
fort is being made at the Training Center to impart a Contact with the firing battery is maintained by radio
maximum of training in the minimum of time. So and the normal use of panels. In addition to towing
far all enlisted men have been received from replace- and tracking missions the Civil Air Patrol has co-
ment training centers which has relieved the burden operated in practicing air-ground liaison, dropping and
considerably. However, it is expected that in the future picking up messages, performing aerial photographic
all trainees except cadremen will be received direct from missions, and making simulated attacks on the troopS
reception centers and the problem of giving basic train- while on the road and in position.
ing must also be borne. Emphasis has been placed on The presence of Major General Joseph A. Green al
firing with all the weapons available and on hardening Fort Sheridan July 11, 1942, was the highlight of our
the men to prepare them for the rigors of modern war- short career. General Green, accompanied by lieuten-
fare. The post of Fort Sheridan, while relatively small ant Colonel Courtland Schuyler, stopped over for a
in acreage, is ideally equipped for this latter purpose. A brief one day visit on his way to the west coast.
1942 COAST ARTILLERY ACTIVITIES 97
Although General Green's visit was short it was A soldier's life here is not all work, but it is work
crowded with events. He was able to inspect the post, interspersed with enjoyable entertainments. CoOpera-
to observe the conduct of fire by one of the training tive and patriotic citizens from the neighboring towns
units, and to watch a battalion struggle through the have generously equipped the battery day rooms to pro-
intricacies of the newly constructed obstacle course. vide real havens of relaxation during off-duty hours.
Later in the afternoon he witnessed a regimental review Also the neighboring towns, with their numerous and
oiven
., in his honor on the beautiful and spacious parade well equipped u.s.a. clubs, offer a pleasant change
ground which falls within the shadows of the famous from life on the Post. For an occasional extended trip.
old Fort Sheridan tower. the city of Chicago offers limitless diversion.

Camp Haan
BRIGADIER GENERAL JAMES R. TOWNSEND, Commanding AATC
By Lieutenant Harry B. Berman
Expansion at the training center proceeds in Hydra- mountain and desert training are included in the train-
like manner-when one unit departs, two others spring ing curriculum for antiaircraft units here.
up to take its place. Coincident with new activations Newest of the training aids has been the formation
has been the rapid extension of the camp's physical of two AATC bands, consisting of some sixty men,
facilities, and the surge of construction has pushed the who also, but not incidentally, are concerned with the
fringe of buildings in some areas to the camp limits. business of morale. These "morale-men" were recruited
Construction innovations here include the converted into the bands, and represent one of the finest accumula-
"winterized" tents, the fifteen-man prefabricated hut- tions of individual musical talent in the country. Col-
ments, black-top tennis courts, and the installation of lectively, the sum of the abilities has produc~d two
oil-burning tent heaters in place of the gas heaters, bands which in the short time of three months have
since the constituents of gas fuel are to be used in the reached and surpassed all ultimate hopes of their per-
production of synthetic rubber. formance. Their precision and skill was the subject of
The progress of the training mission has found im- a commendation by a visiting inspector, and for good
petus in the rounding out of the school program which reason, for within a month after their activation, both
now consists of a full schedule of centralized and unit bands were playing for parades and ceremonies and for
schools for both officers and enlisted men. The arrival recruit infantry drill training.
of newly-commissioned officers and enlisted men from Their expanding list of activities includes concerts
reception centers has necessitated concentrated devel- for hospital patients, troops in the desert, and orches-
opment of an adequate school schedule. The current tras for post and regimental dances for both officers
mathematics classes preparing enlisted men for officer and enlisted men. On July 23, a formal introduction
candidate schools have induced a larger attendance than of the band members was made to the training center
any previously offered course indicating the acute en- troops in the form of a giant musical presentation at
thusiasm and initiative prevalent. the vVar Department theatre, when each bandsman
Because of the opportune geographical location of voiced a greeting in music. A two-hour program of
Camp Haan, troop traini,ng has been enriched and di- modern music convinced a capacity audience of the dis-
versifiedby the proximity of varying climatic and natu- tinguished constituency of the bands.
ral surface. conditions. vVithin easy reach is the desert Coincident with the expansion of the bands was the
with its problems of barrenness and temperature; even formation of a chorus of thirty voices, many of whom
closer are the mountains and attendant lakes present- are bandsmen. On August 16, a twenty-five-piece band
ing their peculiarities to the antiaircraft battery. Both and the chorus were featured on 1\'1utual Network's 1
98 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October
Hear America Singing radio program, with Robert To assist the training of machine gunners a dummy
Armbruster as guest conductor. A similar program is paper tank has been constructed which is towed back
planned from the stage of the camp theatre. and forth in a "W" pattern by a system of pulleys con-
Completed last week in August was the intricate nected to a motor. The not-so-long-ago novice gunners
and novel obstacle course. Built by a former construct- thoroughly riddled the target.
ing engineer, the course consists of seventeen obstacles, Recently among visitors to Camp Haan was a four-
calculated to test the dexterity and nimbleness of the man inspecting team headed by Brigadier General G.
most accomplished athletes. Ladders, cat-walks, ropes, de L. Carrington from the Antiaircraft Command at
jumps, fences, hurdles, entanglements, and barricades Richmond who conducted a two-day inspection of the
will segregate the strong and the swift, and provide the progress and completeness of the training program here
incentive and the means for the development of capable and at Camp M.A.A.R.
agile bodies. The course awaits its baptism by troops. Among the highlights of interest at Camp Haan
Troops stationed at the Mojave Antiaircraft Artillery comes word that the camp fire department was awarded
Range in the Mojave Desert about 100 miles from first in fire prevention in all the military installations of
Camp Haan are telling a strange story-that the desert the Ninth Service Command for the first six months of
heat exists more in fable than in fact. Instead of scorch- 1942. Nor has fire fighting been the range of the de-
ing heat, they have found surprising comfort and pleas- partment's activities for under the direction of the fire
antness, and the myth of desert horrors has been dis- chief, classes in the control of incendiary bombs have
sipated by soldier health and soldier eagerness. The rea- been conducted, with demonstrations in technique given
son lies with the humidity which varies between the by the firemen, all of whom are skilled in incendiary
astonishing low levels of 12 to 16 Wily desert men bomb control.
0
0

say that if you know desert ways, water can be found Civilian entertainers visiting Camp Haan included
plentifully, evidence of which can be placed in the fact Harpo Marx, Lucille Ball, George Burns and Gracie
that there is a well or spring about every ten miles. Allen, Bert Wheeler, Herbert Marshall, Eddie Cantor,
The average daily maximum temperature approximates Veronica Lake, Hattie McDaniels, and Dr. Josef Hoff-
100 F., but in December of 1940 the temperature sank mann. Boxing celebrities giving exhibitions were Henry
0

to 16 F. Proof of the fickleness of weather was a three- Armstrong and Jimmy McLarnin, former champions.
0

inch snowfall in 1941, and the sporadic and localized Newest of the recreational features is the initiation
nature of the desert rain which averages six inches a of a weekly officers' buffet supper and dinner dance at
year. Fog has been recorded in the Mojave Desert only the Officers' Club which provides a pleasant means for
twice, once in 1914 and again in 1938. The entire social meetings between officers in different units.
water supply for Camp M.A.A.R. (Mojave Antiaircraft As an aid to the orientation of new soldiers, an il-
Artillery Range) comes from an underground lake some lustrated booklet has been prepared by the S-2 office,
500 feet below the earth's surface. pointing out the recreational opportunities, basic mili-
Recently completed at Camp M.A.A.R. was the in- tary laws and customs, and the facilities of the camp and
stallation of a cooling system in the administration nearby towns and communities. Maps, diagrams, and
building, mess halls, and the post exchange. The con- caricatures lend interest, clarity, and humor to the
version into winterized tents is in progress, and a prob- booklet which is hoped will ease the adaptive process
able expansion of the camp facilities is planned for the of incoming soldiers.
near future.

This war probably will be long. It will be the toughest, hardest,


. most merciless war we ever have fought. It calls for the united power
of every American, in uniform and out of uniform, on the fighting
line and on the factory line. -ADMIRAL WILLIAM D. LEAHY.
Fort Eustis
BRIGADIER
GENERALFORRESTE. \VILLIFORD,Commanding
By Lieutenant John O. Looney

Perhaps the brightest highlight in the news emanat- of the game will go to the Army Emergency Relief.
ing from this Antiaircraft Replacement Training Cen- Corporals George Cafego and Kenneth Fryer have been
ter was the presentation of an all-post show, Fort Eustis selected as candidates and have left the post to report
Cm'alcade of Stars, which was produced entirely for for their new duties at Yale. They will be coached
and by the men at this station. The show was given by Colonel Robert Neyland, who is mentor at the Uni-
on the evening of August 25 on the large new outdoor versity of Tennessee, where Cafego was an All-Ameri-
stage and entertained nearly 10,000 enlisted men, offi- can quarterback.
cers, their wives and guests. A sparkling array of talent EDITOR'SNOTE: Score: Eastern Army 16-Giants o.
was revealed by a thorough auditioning search through
the personnel of the post, and the acts presented in the Before coming into the service Corporal Fryer starred
cavalcade required more than two hours to display. at the fullback position for the University of \Vest Vir-
The scene was made all the more colorful with the ginia. Orders were rescinded on Private George Zorich,
natural effects of a full moon brilliantly lighting the Northwestern University star, who originally was di-
stage and audience. Beginning at 8 o'clock, a continu- rected to play on the vVestern All-Army team. He was
ous performance of comedians, tap dancers, magicians, prepared to leave this post for the west coast when the
\'ocalists, instrumentalists, "girl" choruses and many new orders came through.
other phases of entertainment kept the large audience Special swimming convoys were conducted through-
under its spell until the broad beam of an antiaircraft
searchlight was focused on the American Bag to the ac-
companying strains of the National Anthem, ringing
down the curtain on a show which was entertaining
from beginning to end.
This station has started a post paper which will be
distributed free to personnel. A contest was held to
determine the soldiers' choice of a name to be given the
publication, titled The Shy \;\1atch. The paper, to con-
sist of eight pages, will be distributed weekly to each
battery, battalion, and detachment on the post. vVith
the aid of the classification section of the station, men
\\'ho have had complete experience in the newspaper
and publishing business have been chosen to comprise
the staff. These men have already begun their work
and the first edition of the paper was distributed Sep-
tember 4. Each battery in Fort Eustis is assigned a re-
porter, one taken directly from that organization, and it
is his job to be in charge of news from his unit. Dead-
lines for news from the different battalions have been
staggered to make possible a well-balanced paper. This
newest addition to the public relations office of Fort
Eustis now divides it:.into three component parts: the
post newspaper, press relations section, and the radio
section.
Fort Eustis is doing more than its share when it comes
to the contribution of talent for the Eastern Army grid
team which will meet the New York Giants, profes- Private Eugene Zion draws posters for visual training in
Chemical Warfare.
Sionals,September 12 on the Polo Grounds. Proceeds Photo by Sergeant Charles If'. Hart
100 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October
out the summer months by the recreation office of Fort were available to the men of the post who wished to
Eustis so that enlisted men would have transportation make long-distance calls. The new equipment has been
to and from Yorktown Beach, where they could enjoy installed in the post signal office so that the men would
a cool swim on Sundays. The men were allowed an not have to wait outside, exposing themselves to the
hour and a half in the water and as soon as they had rain, cold, or hot sun. The new installation is open
their time limit, the convoy would return to the post and from 4:30 P.M. until 10 P.M. during the week and from
take another group of men to the beach. This con- 2 P.M. until 7:30 P.M. on Sundays.
tinued throughout the day, beginning at 8 o'clock in A series of fourteen articles, each dealing with a
the morning, the last convoy returning at 6: 15 P.M. deadly gas, has been publicized by the public relations
With the discontinuance of the Civilian Conserva- office of Fort Eustis, after a survey in cooperation with
tion Corps, the buildings and equipment of Camp the chemical warfare service of the post. Component
Spruce Glen, which formerly was situated near the parts of each gas, its physiological reactions, most ef-
western boundary of the post, have been turned over to fective remedy and instructions on how to best avoid
the army, and the barracks will be used as temporary becoming a gas casualty of the different types are given
quarters for troops which are about to be transferred in each story and these are published in newspapers in
from the post for further technical schooling, officer the area. The series is being conducted in an effort to
candidate school and other movements. acquaint the civilian populus with warfare of this type
A new long-distance attended pay station, complete and to enable the individual to know immediately what
with eight booths and a three-position switchboard to do should such an emergency arise. Tentative plans
has been installed on this post. The new station pre- have been made for use of the series by one of the large
sents a vast improvement over the older facilities which newspaper wire syndicates for general publication.

Camp McQuaide
BRIGADIER GENERAL FRANK S. CLARK, Commanding
By Lieutenant Franklin 1. Deibert
Once a National Guard tent camp, Camp McQuaide, clubhouse, entertainment for the men is not lacking.
California, is now buzzing with the activity of a new Many of the local clubs and organizations have opened
construction program. The station hospital is being en- their doors to the men in uniform and several enter-
larged; tent houses have been torn down and sixteen- taining features have taken place at the Camp in the
man hutments built in their places; new officers' hut- outdoor bowl. Among these have been USO outdoor
ments have been erected; new hutment areas are under shows, Camel Caravan Shows and boxing bouts and
construction; and a new Camp Exchange and Service entertainments put on by the trainees themselves.
Club will be built. All of this construction is required Overs and Shorts, a weekly newspaper published as
to make Camp McQuaide the Seacoast Artillery Re- a civilian enterprise with all news and features written
placement Training Center of the country. by the personnel of the camp made its first appearance
Some contingents of men have already arrived, hav- September 25. A Bugle and Drum Corps is now in the
ing received some of their basic training at other train- process of formation and will shortly make its appear-
ing centers. Upon completion of their training cycle, ance at drills and ceremonies.
many of these trainees will be retained as cadre to form The Officers' Club has recently been redecorated and
new training battalions. New battalions will be acti- is tbe scene of semi-monthly dances which are quite
vated as the housing facilities become available under popular with the commissioned personnel of the Camp.
the construction program in progress. Firing points On September 4th, a reception was tendered Brigadier
for smaller seacoast weapons and for AA weapons have General and Mrs. Frank S. Clark, by the officers.
already been established and have been put to use. Brigadier General Clark recently returned from the
The AA firing point is used by ta~tical units and task Australian Theatre to assume command of the T rain-
forces from nearby areas. The close proximity of the
ing Center.
two points aids in giving men training with the con-
fusion of actual fire nearby. Specialist's Schools are being set up to include Radio,
Rifle and pistol ranges are being constructed and in Communications, Cooks and Bakers, Clerks, Tractor
a very short time, all facilities necessary for a full train- Drivers and Chauffeurs, Officer Candidate Preparatory,
ing program will be available at the Camp. While the and Refresher Courses for Officers. Other Specialist
nearest town at present lacks the facilities of a usa Schools will be set up in the future as the need arises.
---
Chesapeake Bay
Sector
BRIGADIER GENERAL ROLLIN L. TILTON, COlli 111m/ding

By Lieutella11t Colollel James B. Allderson, Jr.

Although much of the news Rowing into the Public to be the equals, if not the superiors of, the very best
Relations Office of the Chesapeake Bay Sector cannot in this particular branch of the service.
be released for publication, reports to Sector Head- An illustration of the physical fitness and quality of
quarters during recent months from all units in this in- leadership of the troops in this camp was given recently
tensely vital area reRect a new alertness of officers and when an officer braved a rough sea, swam out a quarter
men in response to enemy submarine action off the At- of a mile and recovered a large, black sleeve target shot
lantic Coast, which has made this area virtually a front- down by the antiaircraft gunners during practice. The
line of defense. target was riddled completely, testifying to the excel-
Exacting and frequent combat drills, accompanied by lent marksmanship of the gunners.
technical training in field work, are fitting these men Although training is rigorous and the men are in the
for the toughest type of warfare. field constantly, commanders are not neglecting oppor-
Although the deafening rumble of bombs exploding tunities to increase the technical knowledge of both of-
and the raucous ack ack of antiaircraft fire were missing, ficers and men, so vital in modem warfare. A camou-
Fort Monroe was subjected to its first "enemy" bombing Rage school has been set up for the officers, while
shortly before this article went to press. Assisted by the courses are being given to enlisted men in master gun-
Chemical Warfare section of the Chesapeake Bay nery and radio.
Sector in simulating a realistic attack, "enemy" planes Refresher courses for Service Unit Officers are also
dropped their make-believe bombs with deadly ac- being held, the topics covering general military subjects
curacy, providing valuabl~ experience for the damage with the objective to prepare these officers for possible
control facilities of the post. future troop duty.
After the attack a critique was held for the benefit of Colonel Paul H. Herman, CAC, recently arrived at
the officer and enlisted personnel concerned to discuss Fort Story, assuming command of the Harbor Defenses
the multiple phases of defense, damage control, and of Chesapeake Bay. The officers of the Post tendered
associated subjects, in an effort to uncover defects and a reception at the Officers' Club in honor of Colonel
iron them out for future training exercises. and Mrs. Herman, and they were heartily welcomed
From one of the Coast Artillery units at Fort Story to their new post.
comes the news that a rapid-fire gun battery held sub- In the sports field, Corporal Eddy Brickner, Virginia
calibre practice in July with very satisfactory results.
This was followed by record target practice. This was
a new battery, which had never fired anything except
calibration fire. The men responded with zeal, and an
analysis of the practice proved extremely favorable.
Regimental activities at Fort Story, are extensive in
scope and cover a broad terrain. In view of the im-
portance of its tactical mission on the first line of land
defense, it must be ever on the alert against surprise
attacks. A percentage of its original officer personnel
has been promoted and transferred to newly activated
units, taking with them a wealth of experience acquired
during their tour of duty with the regiment, which has
unquestionably and wholeheartedly subscribed in fact
to its motto, Prepared to Defend.
Battle practice programs for the Coast Artillery and
Antiaircraft units now stationed at Camp Pendleton
have been prosecuted vigorously. "Enemy" planes roar over Fort Monroe, Virginia, during
As a result of this patient and meticulous training, a simulated air attack, dropping 500-pound demolition
"bombs," represented by paper bags filled with flour.
the efficiency of the units has been raised to a high
Coastal defense batteries are camouflaged with smoke-
point, officers claiming that if they could reveal their pots, in an effort to impair the accuracy of the bom-
training records, examination would show their troops bardier.
102 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October
-
State welter-weight champion, easily romped off with during the early part of August and witnessed the
the Third Sen'ice Command boxing tournament in the firing of one of the batteries.
135 lb. class. Corporal Brickner is conducting boxing Activities of the Ordnance Company at Fort f\ 10nrOe
instruction classes at Fort Story. during recent months have, in addition to maintenance
In an effort to promote closer cooperation between of railway artillery, been directed towards the servicino
the civilians living near Fort Monroe and the armed of the numerous instruments used by the Coast Artit
forces stationed there, Major Alvin Caldwell, Chemical lery School, in an effort to keep the much-fired 75mm's
Warfare Officer of the Post, has given frequent lectures operating smoothly for the use of the OCS staff.
on the control of incendiaries and the other phases of In their never-ceasing effort to better their previous
civilian defense, in order that a considerable cross sec- firing scores, the batteries of the Coast Artillery regi-
tion of the local residents may be fully prepared to cope ment at Fort [vlonroe are now preparing for record
with any eventuality of enemy action in this area, when target practice. The highlight of the regiment's train-
and if the occasion ever arises. ing thus far has been the excellent showing made by
During the month of July, intensive training in guer- the single battery which has completed its record fire..
rilla warfare and preparation for sen'ice target practice During a recent four-day inspection of the defenses
was the order of the day for the troops stationed at Fort of the Tidewater Virginia area, Representative Thomas
Custis. Brigadier General Rollin L. Tilton, Command- of New Jersey stated that "This sector is on the alert"
ing General, Chesapeake Bay Sector, visited the post and "There should be no Pearl Harbor here."

BRIGADIER GENERAL EAHL H. [VIEIZGER, Commanding AATC


By Lieutenant Walter H. Dmtmann, Jr.

\Vhile the boom of antiaircraft guns continuously grouped under eight separate divisions to facilitate Post
rolls out over the vast area of this south Georgia anti- management.
aircraft training center as AA regiments and battalions Another recent highlight was the two-day inspection
go through their firing paces, numerous other events of Stewart's colored troops now undergoing antiaircraft
have taken place at Camp Stewart in the past two training by Brigadier General B. O. Davis of the In-
months. spector General's Office, \Vashington, D. C. General
One of the most important of recent days was the Davis saw the troops in action on the antiaircraft range
streamlining of Camp Stewart's administrative setup so and also at their housekeeping duties in the hutment
that the Commanding General might devote more time areas. He said he was "very favorably impressed" by
to actual antiaircraft training and firing activity. what he saw.
Colonel William V. Ochs, former Provost J\larshal After a review of the colored troops, General Dm'is
and Commandant, Station Complement, was named addressed them briefly, expressing his pleasure at
Post Commander, with responsibility for administrative what he had seen and telling them that "whate\'er. I
management of the post under the Fourth Sen'ice have become I owe to mv officers and non-commIS-
Command, Atlanta, Ga. sioned officers I served under as an enlisted man." He
Brigadier General Earl H. Metzger continues as added that "I have great faith in my country a.nd in
Commanding General of the Antiaircraft Training that it will repay my descendants for any sacnfice I
Center, relinquishing to Colonel Ochs responsibility may make."
for all administrative details, which have been re- General Davis also saw the new guest house and
19-12 COAST ARTILLERY ACTIVITIES 103

,;,n'ice club for the training center's colored troops and


inspected the colored sen'ice detachments of the post.
The new colored service club, which has cafeteria and
librarv facilities. was recentlv dedicated with a dance
attended by representatives ~f all colored units of the
post.
Camp Stewart now has a "G. I." model of the or
,;\rimmin' hole, Under direction of the Special Sen'ices
OfIicer. the "hole" was opened to all troops at a sandy
bend of the Canoochee river. It has a larae o
barbecue
pit. tables to seat 150 and bathing facilities for 300,
including twenty-five showers and bath house facilities.
Another development of direct value to the antiair-
craft troops here is the successful and continuing use
of t\\"o post bands to "beat out" morale-building rhythm A lifelike model of U. S. Heavy Tank Tl was judged best
for the men. A daily chore now, the bands parade from in Camp Stewart's tank demonstration contest. Soldiers
who constructed the winning model (above) were given
firing point to firing point on the antiaircraft range.
noteworthy training performance citations and three-
pausing at each point to play several stirring marches day passes by the Commanding General.
or perhaps a bit of sentimental music or a jive number
or t\\'o. One band usually plays from 8 Ai\l to 1 Pl\l and ing smokc and tcar gas all over the range, and getting
the other takes over and plays to 5 Pi\I. lcctures from Camp Stcwart's experts on the art of anti-
Tiger Rag is the favorite tune of the colored troops; aircraft in modern warfare.
and the most played. La Cllcnraclw and the Pen/lilt The "ROTC'ers" will be ready for commissions in
\'ellda,. arc the favorcd numbers of the white troops. the Armv• this winter or next sprinab and the "lab"
"But whatever the bands play, the soldiers like it, work they did at Camp Stewart will help qualify them
and it is proving a great asset to the training program," for their future Army careers. Among them was Donald
one ranaeo
officer said. Metzgcr, son of the training center's Commanding Gen-
The antiaircraft range was pepped up recently, too, eral.
by the weekend inspection and study visit of 135 ad- One of the highlights of Camp Stewart's training
vanced Coast Artillerv ROTC students from the program last month was a dummy tank construction
Georgia Institute of Technology. The ebullient po- contest, the purpose of which was to teach the antiair-
tential officers arrived on the post by special convoy craftsmen, who must also double as anti-mechanized
from Atlanta on a Friday night in time to view a color- troops on occasions, how to recognize both United
ful night-firing antiaircraft practice. States and enemv tanks.
All day Saturday they were kept on the go, watching Thirteen units constructed realistic, life-size tanks
firing activity after marching four miles out to the AA from nonessential materials, mounted them on jeeps
range, participating in a tear gas drill with beeps strew- and trucks, and paraded them before practically every
soldier on the post. Officer-sponsors preceded each
model in the parade and megaphoned details of the
tank's structure and performance.
A committee of officers rated the models on life-like
appearance and ingenuity of construction and use of
materials, and awarded prizes to two participating units.
The winner was a true-ta-life U. S. Heavy Tank T1.
An engraved plaque went to the winning outfit and
letters of noteworthy training performance and three-
day passes went to the following, builders of the model:
Sergeant Harley B. Leach, Corporal Booker T. Saun-
ders, Private First Class Mose Nixon, and Privates
James Anderson, Ulysses Moore, and Frank Tremble.
Lieutenant \\Talter D. Swift was in charge.
Second prize winners, who built a medium Fiat-
t\nsaldo (Italian) tank, received the passes and letters.
They were: First Sergeant Robert Black, Sergeants H.
E. Bishoff, D. J. Sweeney, Frank de Martino, and Joe
Georgia Tech ROTC students quickly got into their gas
masks when a smoke and tear gas attack was staged for C. Peterman, Staff Sergeant Joseph H. Hammett, and
them at Camp Stewart. Corporals David J. T ournay and Floyd E. Portell.
The Coast Artillery School
BRIGADIER GENERAL L. B. YVEEKS, C01llmmldant

In step with the rapid expansion of the Army of the Since Ju]y 1, this classification system has been taken
United States, the Coast Artillery Schoo] is continually care of by Major Dean \\T. Fenton of the Adjutant Gen-
revising its plans and schedules to maintain its ever eral's Department, who is here with the Schoo] and
increasing quota of graduates of the various depart- assigned to the staff of Brigadier Genera] L. B. \\leeks.
ments. The Staff and Faculty recently has been aug- i\hjor Fenton interviews the incoming officers and
mented therefore by many new instructors. records their past military history, civilian occupations
September brought another graduation of a large and hobbies, as to their main and secondary occupa-
group from the Battery Officers' Course in Seacoast tions.
Artillery. They received their certificates of proficiency This information obtained is gone over very thor-
from Brigadier Genera] Lawrence B. \\Teeks after a ough]y and the officers qualification card is marked ac-
short congratulatory talk in Murray Hall, and then left cording]y. For example, if an officer with experience in
for their newly-assigned posts. Among the graduates railway engineering or maintenance is interviewed, he
were four Brazi]ian Army officers, who are now on would be recommended for assignment to some railway
duty as observers with the field troops in the United artillery outfit.
States. They are First Lieutenants Joaquin V. A]ves,
vVhen transfer orders from the Headquarters, Re-
O]y Lopes Dornelles, Jose A. Martins, and Carlos
placement and Schoo] Command, Army Ground Forces
A]vares No]l. \iVhen they first arrived at the Schoo],
at Birmingham are issued for officers of certain grades.
they amazed many- of the Post personnel with their
and troop or over-troop age, the proper officers arc
green uniforms and the two silver stars they wear on
selected and transferred to fill the position specified.
their shoulder straps, the Brazi]ian way of denoting the
The Department of Artillery has received an 1\11
rank of first lieutenant.
Upon reaching the States, the Brazi]ian officers ran 8-inch railway gun as addition a] equipment for the
into a more mature officer of the United States Army armament inspection part of the course. It will be use~
during the field trips of both the Battery Officers
wearing one silver star, a brigadier genera]; the rank of
one silver star in the Brazilian Army is a second lieu- Courses and the Officer Candidate School.
tenant. So it turned out that the brigadier genera] A new course of instruction was installed late]v in thc
couldn't figure out how four young officers could be Coast Artillery Schoo] curriculum-it is The~ry and
major generals, and the Brazilians couldn't imagine Practice, for both enlisted men and officers, on the Gun
what such an elderly gentleman would be doing with Data Computer. All of the staff named for the neW
the rank of second lieutenant. However, after finding course except one are at the Sperry Gyroscope Com-
an interpreter, everything was straightened out! pany in New York taking a short review course and
\-\lith many officers and warrant officers passing will return to Fort Monroe in the near future.
through the control of the Coast Artillery Schoo] every The Department of Training Publications has also
week in the courses offered, there has arisen a problem. expanded in order to prepare more training films, film
This problem is the proper classification and assignment strips and manuals for dissemination to the Coast
of these officers, so that each officer will end up in the Artillerymen all over the world. The scripts for all
proper type of outfit and position. these publications are prepared with but one thought
1942 COAST ARTILLERY ACTIVITIES 105
in mind, and that is that the proper instruction should pictures are taken and printed, for later transition to
reach the man in the field. film strips, there is always a need for some art work to
Captain John T. Kelton has returned to the Depart- highlight certain features in the picture.
ment from Hollywood where he was the technical ad- The Submarine Mine Department held graduation
viser on the training film, Fire Control and Position exercises for the Warrant Officers completing the Army
Finding for Seacoast Artillery, produced in the RKO Mine Planters Course on August 22. Enlisted men
Studios, in conjunction with the Research Council of graduated from the Submarine Mine Maintenance
the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Course on September 19.
Captain Charles L. Combes has returned from Fort There has recently appeared a new type of mine
Hancock where he finished a manual on the railway planter. One is here for trial runs and testing.
artillery, entitled Service of the Piece, 8-inch Gun, Mk In the Officer Candidate School division of the
VI, Modification 3A2, on Railway Mount MIAI, num- School, three classes have graduated recently and re-
bered FM 4-49, which will be released shortly. He is ceived their commissions from Brigadier General L. B.
now working on FM 4-51 entitled Seacoast Artillery, Weeks.
Operation and Care of Railway Equipment. Upon their graduation, General Weeks told the
The cameras have started to grind on location in theclasses:
production of Major Harold Greene's scenario, Care "At no time in the history of the United States Army
and Maintenance of the I55mm Gun. The majority has there been a more pressing need for dependable and
of the scenes are being shot at Fort Story. capable Coast Artillery officers. During your course
The training film of the 12-inch gun on barbette at the Coast Artillery Officer Candidate School, you
carriage is progressing rapidly at Fort Saulsbury, withhave proved that you can stand hard work and you have
Captains A. W. Adams and Albert Ray in charge. They received the rudiments of professional knowledge
have already forwarded to the Coast Artillery School needed by young Coast Artillery Officers. Your future
usefulness as officers will depend upon your square
Part 2 for review by the School Staff. It is an excellent
film and is entitled Breech Mechanisms. Part of it has dealing with the soldiers entrusted to you for training
been filmed in slow motion to bring out the more im- for war, and square dealing with your fellow officers;
portant movements. upon your constant attention to duty, constant study,
The recently completed training film Fire Control constant hard work, and above all, upon your ability to
and Position Finding for Seacoast Artillery will be keep going, when the going is tough.
ready for distribution shortly and is to be issued in the "The Coast Artillery School hopes and expects that
following ten parts: you will become capable and useful officers and that
each of you, individually, will always be eager to carry
Running Time
(Minutes)on more than your share of heavy responsibility and
hard work."
PartI-Position Finding Systems 38
The Officer Candidate School is now turning out
II-Non-Standard Ballistic Conditions .. , 24
more second lieutenants than ever before. Graduations
III-Computing and Setting Firing Data .. 31
are now held once every two weeks.
IV -Pointing Methods and Reference Num-
The Department of Enlisted Specialists under the
bers , 21
direction of Colonel Clem. O. Gunn, continulis to turn
V-The MI Plotting Board and MI Range
out in large numbers graduates of the various courses
Correction De:vice 39
offered to the enlisted men of the Army.
VI-The MI Deflection Board , 26
The Master Gunners Course held graduation exer-
VII-Dispersion, Errors, and Spotting Systems 13
cises on July 7 and pad another one scheduled for
VIII-The M3 Spotting Board , 18
October 5. The Submarine Mine Maintenance Course
IX-Fire Adjustment-The Magnitude Cor-
finished on September 19, while the Electrical Course
rection Method and Lateral Adjust-
students received their certificates in two sections, one
ment 26
on August 4, and the other on September 1. The
X-Fire Adjustment-The Bracketing Meth-
Automotive Course men were due to graduate on Oc-
od 15
tober 5.
An example of the excellent retouching abilities of All the graduates received their certificates of pro-
one of the Visual Aid Staff artists, Sergeant Robert ficiency from Brigadier General L. B. Weeks, in appro-
Held, is portrayed in the frontispiece of this JOURNAL, priate ceremonies.
a picture of the Fort Monroe Post Chapel, The Church The Coast Artillery School and Staff Officers who
of the Centurion, which is well known to all personnel received promotions lately were hosts at a party on the
who have ever been stationed at Fort Monroe. When Hotel Chamberlain Roof.
Camp
Callan

BRIGADIER GENERAL FRANCIS P. HARDAWAY, Co 111HUlIldillg AATC


By Captaill \-\1. J. Hauser
Conditioning troops for ultimate field service has and their pup-tent bivouacs. In the meantime, other
been a major consideration in troop training programs items on their training schedules provide for progressive
since last December. In line with this program Camp attacks on the obstacle course, and extended order ma-
Callan has added several progressively more strenuous neuvers. The unscheduled alerts frequently called bv
items to the heavily concentrated training schedules. individual units likewise aid in troop conditioning.
In addition to infantry drill during the first few Later in the training cycle, organizations engage in
weeks, new troops are marched to their various training extensive tactical exercises including the selection and
areas and ranges. Soon they are making road marches, occupation of positions in varied terrain and in actual
and as the few short weeks pass, these trainees go on darkness. These items of training are all accomplished
more strenuous hikes, up and down hills and cliffs until in addition to the primary mission of training the new
they are fully conditioned for long over-night marches recruits for their duties as replacements in their future

A Camp Callan Training Battalion takes a hike.


the instruction of groups of men. Hence the develop-
IDENTIFICATION OF AIRCUAFT ment of the idea brought into reality the Camp Callan
aircraft identification board and each T raininot:> Bat-
talion now has this added item for the traininot:> and in-
TYPES OF struction of its men and officers. j\lodels of planes, and

~--
htONOPLAN ES
IlIlQA5Q.

---.--- --.,-
DfN.UlRAl
important parts of aircraft are also used for identification
instruction along with this latest training aid.
\Var savings Stamps and Bonds are very popular with
~.~--...,
HIGH WtNC Q;.11. ..-tWG
the officers and troops at Camp Callan. The purchases
of stamps and bonds have steadily increased as the
--L-... ~
LOW WlhiG II-PI..JJI: months roll by. Sales during a single month, recently
NOTOR MOtINTS totaled o\'er $23,000, and the face value of Bonds pur-
r- ,.....-- chased amounted to almost $30,000. j\lany pay reserva-
.....--
.&MM WN:;

WIO WJilIG
IltOW

~
WlIlilG

WJl.I'SllAGE-
tions have also been made, but the above facts and
figures are taken from actual cash sales at the Camp
TAIL ASSEMBlAGE Callari post office for the month.
l)l.al ~lll". RI1.llU nU,I ..K
('''' f---1 1---1 In the latter part of August, Camp Callan was visited
WAIlPlANE MAIlKlNGS
UNITED NATIONS by an inspecting team from the Antiaircraft Command.
000V* Callan's first executive officer, now Brigadier General,
u.~ G.8. (HI"-' "'-TOl u..s...-......
THE AXIS Gordon de L. Carrington, was the senior member of
SlItOJ IPlI ....
••
......".,.)oUIIl.JI
<@
ITAlY
the group from the Richmond Headquarters .
u.S. PlANE TYPE DESIGNATIONS
The inspecting party began by witnessing a regi-
lid' row .......
\l10(iU~O
llfT("t~"kl
C. 11fIIRll~
.\. P.-sIRIW'WIl'.\ .....
Ul.llOu.a .... 1'16 .... ~ •.... _.onlw'::::;.... __
\6. UlIaAlI{J ...
w.
mental parade of five battalions now receiving basic
OIIl&oUlfltllI'" ... C&Sl04T1011l O. 114l."I~ , ............. ......-_ tit MnIl W
( ...... TW8tII:JI
1IA<aC,IOMS4t
(. J'N01()6a~t(
IU. PUUUH
f.
'0
1a.u.1~1'4SlC111
lU ..... (.oIILlIl1IU
\OIIl_'t\I~
L-
ft

~
"'-..

-.
" training. Next on the inspection tour, the group visited
the Ordnance Machine Shop, then the automatic weap-
Identification Board, front view. ons range to watch the firing practice of the automatic
weapons. All training battalions in their various phases
permanent organizations. By the time they complete all of training were visited. The target practice of a bat-
essential subjects, they are well qualified for duty in the talion firing the 155mm guns commanded interest.
field. Increased activity is noted in the Officer Candidate
Another phase of great importance is aircraft identi- Section these days. Larger Antiaircraft Artillery Officer
fications. Many have probably read in the last issue of Candidate School quotas require the unending efforts
the COASTARTILLERYJOURNALthe story of the origin of all the officers in the training units. Candidates for
of the carboard reference charts issued not long ago, this school are the primary requisite and the combined
enabling personnel to study the important features of total of men sent to Antiaircraft, Coast Artillery, Cav-
aircraft for the purpose of more rapid identification. alry, Infantry, Chemical 'Warfare, Engineers and the
Evenbefore these charts were circulated, Camp Callan's other schools, now total over forty each week.
training aids for aircraft identification were planned
and under construction. To provide group instruction,
a large standard with a fixed board approximately 6 x 8
feet makes up the information board and gives the
group under instruction information including the
Winzs, Engines, Fuselage, and Tail, using the WEFT
system of identification. Further information is given
on this board in the colored reproductions of aircraft
markings of the nations in the war.
On the back of this board is mounted a rotating two-
faceddisk six feet in diameter. On each side of the disk,
which is similar to the large disk of the cardboard chart,
are mounted pictures of the various planes and their
identifying features. As this disk is rotated on its pivot
the identifying information on it is visible to the stu-
dents through the apertures on the outward face of the
standard. After study of the pictures on one side of the
disk it can then be removed and reversed, and the ad-
ditional planes and data are available for instruction.
ThiS is quite similar to the cardboard chart issued. How-
eVerthe idea of the large chart was conceived with the
thought of the necessity for an adequate training aid in Identification Board, rear view.

[
PUERTO RICO C. A. COMMAND
COLONEL C. THOMAS-STAHLE, Commanding

By Captain W. C. Deveremlx

The island of Puerto Rico, located on the northwest from his Bowing beard which was jet black and covered
rim of the Caribbean Sea, is in an area that can claim his face and chest. He was always extremely proud of
a romantic background that is unsurpassed in most his beard and it is recorded that he spent hours curlino
parts of the world. In the early days of conquest and and combing it, although the rest of his body was af
discovery, the treasure laden ships plying the sea lanes ways unkempt. Before an attack he took special pains
from the new world to the old either stopped in Puerto with his beard and around the outer edge he placed
Rico or at one of the nearby islands before embarking about seven "slow matches" which he would light just
on the long and perilous trip across the Atlantic Ocean. as he was ready to go into hand to hand combat. During
These ships offered extremely valuable loot to pirates. the battle, his foes were not only faced by his deadly
The islands of the Caribbean were therefore profitable cutlass, but by his bristling beard encircled by the burn-
hunting grounds for these swashbuckling, swaggering ing "slow matches," that gave him an appearance which
men who would rather kill a man than argue with him, struck terror into his adversaries. Blackbeard roamed
and their many coves and ports offered wonderful the Caribbean during the early days of the 18th century
havens for pirate ships. Here they could lie in wait until and made his headquarters in the Virgin Islands. It
an unsuspecting merchantman appeared, and here they seems that he had considerable success and his down-
could find suitable places to store their treasures and fall only came when he felt he was greater than the
build castles for themselves from which they could rule English Navy and challenged its power off the southern
their followers. coast of the United States. Did you know that the Virgin
Jamaica, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands were Islands are a part of the Puerto Rican Department?
islands that harbored many pirates since they had the The year that Columbus discovered and named these
larger ports at which most of the merchant ships islands was 1493 and ever since that date the islands
stopped. Jamaica's most famous pirate was Henry have had their ups and downs. From the time of dis-
Morgan, who was more of a privateer for England than covery until the year 1671, when the islands came
a pirate, but he was notorious for his merciless treatment under the rule of Denmark, their great harbors were
of captives. Puerto Rico had the doubtful honor of be- used for rendezvous of the ships of warring nations and
ing the haven for Kofresi, whose name is now better buccaneers who were harassing the sea lanes from the
known as a kind of rum, than as a pirate. The Virgin New \Vorld. For two centuries the ports of the Virgin
Islands could boast of two well known pirates. St. Islands prospered under Danish control and after the
Thomas of the Virgin Islands was the port where both wars of the New World became less frequent and the
Bluebeard and Blackbeard harbored their ships, al- pirates were driven from the sea lanes, two economic
though not at the same time. factors contributed to their prosperity. The harbor of
There is no doubt that there were two pirates, Blue- Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, one of the best of the
beard and Blackbeard, whose castles are still standing in three main ports in the islands, became a port of great
St. Thomas, but pirate history records little of Blue- importance due to the fact that it was a point of trans-
beard's actions. Undoubtedly he has been confused shipment for merchandise brought there for redistribu-
with the famous character in fiction who had seven tion. There can still be seen the large warehouses ex-
wives and murdered each of them as he tired of her. tending 300 to 400 feet back from the water front,
Since records indicate that this tale was translated from where goods unloaded from one ship were sorted and
the French in 1440 it is clear that either our Bluebeard reloaded into other vessels. Modern invention played
was a different one or that someone discovered the New havoc with this source of income and with the advent
'World before 1492. Though Bluebeard's pirate history of steam, larger ships and oil burners, the cargo vessel
is not well known, the pirate Bluebeard was feared for found that it was not profitable to make this extra
his murderous deeds. stop on its ocean crossings and the port suffered from
Blackbeard, it is said, was the meanest of all pirates the loss of this revenue.
and compared to him, the famous Captain Kidd was a The other factor that helped develop these ports was
law abiding citizen. Blackbeard's name was derived the American slave trade. The islands became the
1942 COAST ARTILLERY ACTIVITIES 109
out. In 1917 it was rumored that Germany was dicker-
ing for the islands so that she could have a submarine
base in the New "VorId. This threat stirred the United
States into action and the deal was carried out, but at a
much higher figure than previously set. Although the
price paid for these islands seemed exorbitant, it is far
less than the price we would have to pay if Germany
had been able to carry through her intention.
St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John are the three
largest of a group of approximately fifty islands that
make up the Virgin Islands Group of which only eight
are populated. The climatic conditions come closer to
being "ideal" than any other location in the worId. The
0
temperature ranges from 69 to 91 with a difference
0

0
of about 6 between the winter and summer averages.
While mid-day is usually very warm and business is
largely suspended from 12 to 2, there is generally a fine
sea breeze blowing from the Atlantic, which tempers
the tropical sun and keeps down the humidity. The
rainfaIJ varies from month to month, but there are no
dry seasons or wet seasons such as are experienced in
most semi-tropical countries. If this were not true, it
would b~ impossible to live on these islands because the
only source of water is rainfall and it is necessary to
gather the water in large catchment basins that cover the
hills. Tropical bugs are, of course present, but tropical
diseases are practically unknown and flies and mosqui-
toes are about the same in quantity as in any of the mid-
western states. Hurricanes pass over this region oc-
casionally, but most of the buildings are able to with-
Bluebeard's Castle. u. s. Xoro Photograph
stand the high winds, and the people have been edu-
cated in how to cope with these storms; therefore dam-
wholesale distribution point for new slaves being age is usually slight.
brought from Africa and up until the time of the Civil The population of the islands is made up mainly of
War, many valuable cargoes of slaves had passed descendants of slaves who were brought there during
through the islands. Today in St. Thomas and St. the time of the wholesale slave trading. This group
Croix, the old slave markets and warehouses can still makes up 96% of the inhabitants and the remaining
be seen and in some cases the hand irons and shackles 4% is mostly of Danish descent, with a small group of
are still hanging on the walls. Puerto Ricans who have recently migrated to the islands.
Although many other things have affected the pros- At the present time, the chief source of employment is
perity of the islands, the two mentioned previously in the native craft industries which have prospered
seem to have been the major causes of the economic through the sale of these products to tourists at co-
rise and the eventual decli~e of their value. One has operative stores set up in CharIott~ Amalie and in
only to look at the population figures and the rise and Christiansted and Frederiksted on St. Croix. Some
fall of the economic value of the islands can be traced. sugar cane is still grown and th.ere is a little farming,
The population shows a steady increase from the time but the soil is not suitable to good farm products, and
of discovery until 1835, when 43,000 people populated the sugar cane market has practically disappeared.
this region, and then a steady decline occurs, until to- The war of course stopped all of the tourist trade,
day the population has dropped almost 50% and is now but the Virgin Islands are doing their part in defense
around 22,000 inhabitants. By the turn of the last of the shipping of the Caribbean. The defenders of the
century Denmark realized that these far off islands had Virgin Islands along with the defenders of the other
turned into a liability and she began looking for a buyer. islands of the Caribbean are exerting every effort to
The United States had made an endeavor to purchase stamp out the submarine menace. The present day sub-
the islands before the end of the century, but due to a marine pirates will find a warm welcome anywhere
disagreement in Congress the purchase was not carried within gun range from the shore.
i\IAJOR GENERAL FREDERIC H. SMITH, CO!ll!ll(!lulillg
By Captain L. B. ,-\1mltllck

Judging from the number and importance of visitors AA Command, and l\lajor General Smith, commanding
at Camp Davis in recent weeks, Camp Headquarters Camp Davis. Secretary Stimson was interested primarily
would be almost justified in posting a welcoming com- in the Officer Candidate School training program. Th~
mittee permanently at the main entrance to the reser- official party journeyed to the Sears Landing firing point
vation. Enlisted men are arriving weekly from domestic and observed school crews fire 90mm's, 40mm's and
and foreign stations to enroll in the Antiaircraft Artil- machine guns at a plane-towed target. The Secretary of
lery School, ranking representatives of the \\Tar De- \,Var spent the better part of a day at Davis.
partment and Antiaircraft Command are here rather The 160 upper-classmen of the U. S. Military Acad-
frequently on inspection tours, and prominent civilians emy who attended classes in the AA School for several
are occasional guests of the Camp. days might be classed as visitors. Accompanied by Lieu-
In mid-August Secretary of \\Tar Henry L. Stimson, tenant Colonel James L. Hayden, CA instructor at the
accompanied by Major General A D. Surles, paid his Academy, the Cadets studied gunnery, fire control.
first visit to Davis. At the Camp he was met by Major operation of 90mm's and automatic weapons and anti-
General Joseph A Green, Commanding General of the aircraft instruments such as height finders and search-

First aid station in the field at Camp Davis.


19-12 COAST ARTILLERY ACTIVITIES 111
Civilians visiting the Camp since our last news letter
included Hon. D. \V. Harter, chairman of the Sub-
committee on Aviation, House J\lilitarv Affairs com-
mittee. and J\liss Bettv Grable. The latter's visit was a
big e\'ent for the enlisted men of the command, who
jammed Theater No. 2 for two successive nights to
watch Betty's performance in the USO-Camp Show
Hollywood Follies. The actress also presented a special
song and dance routine at the Station Hospital for the
benefit of patients unable to attend the theater perform-
ance.
The Officer Candidate Division of the AA School is
now hitting on all four, with an enrollment double that
seven or eight nionths ago. Large numbers of candidates
are coming to the school from such foreign outposts as
40mm practice is stressed. Alaska. Hawaii, Trinidad, Panama and Bermuda. There
is quite a number of men who were in on Japan's at-
Iiohts. A short time after the Cadets returned to the tacks on Hawaii and Dutch Harbor. Although the
"
,\eademy, Camp Davis was pleasantly surprised to re- quota of the Officer Candidate School has been in-
ceive a communication from Major General F. ]-1. creased, there is no visible sign that the OCS course
Wilby, superintendent at \Vest Point, commending of instruction is any easier.
officersand enlisted men for the manner in which the The Camp's tactical units are conducting more anti-
risiting students had been treated and instructed. aircraft firing sessions than ever before, using the fa-
In a classification similar to the Cadets from \iVest cilities of Sears Landing and Fort Fisher to excellent
Point are the officers from Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, advantage. Marksmanship on the 90's and 40's is show-
Chile, Cuba and Venezuela who, as this is written, ing a corresponding improvement.
arc nearing the end of a special course of instruction The Camp authorities have adopted an ingenious
at the AA School. The Latin-Americans are brushing method.of relieving the transportation problem between
up on the latest antiaircraft weapons and tactics. None Davis and Vhlmington. To supplement the existing
of the officers is above the grade of captain and all were bus facilities, eight huge stock trucks, each with a ca-
members of the Field Artillerv in their home countries pacity of sixty enlisted men, are being sent to vVilming-
except the Venezuelans, who ;re Infantry officers. The ton every Saturday, leaving the reservation right after
course they are taking lasts twelve weeks and a rela- noon and returning about midnight. The "cattle train,"
tively large part of the time is spent at the firing points, as it is known by the soldiers, has cut a swath in the
actually firing all calibers of AA weapons. After school stag line that used to wait for hours at the Holly Ridge
hours the visiting officers are getting a taste of North bus terminal, across the highway from Camp Davis.
\merican hospitality. The South Americans have made As a welcoming gesture, Camp Headquarters has
many friends among the civilian population of \Vil- prepared booklets for distribution to new arrivals,
mington, N. G, and other nearby communities. Sev- whether they be officers or enlisted men, describing the
eral Peruvian and Canadian officers have visited Camp Camp in detail and listing recreational facilities to be
Davis recently, but only for brief inspection tours and found in the vicinity. The guide-books contain maps of
not for extended studv. Camp Davis and the surrounding area.

A wise man professes to be wisdom's amateur-never


its professional.
What a whale of a difference two years made at Camp Hulen.
Camp Hulen
BRIGADIER GENERAL HARVEY C. ALLEN, C01l1mmulillg
By Lielltenmzt Samllel H. TlIlIllillsoll

Officers reporting at Camp Hulen and officers who reasonable number of facilities available to aid and
are visiting the Camp for the first time have often com- comfort the hard-working soldier in training. The sol-
mented on the attractiveness of the grounds and the dier's off hours will be made more comfortable when all
pleasant appearance of the Camp in general. Such the Camp's living quarters have been converted to hut-
comments indicate that the energy which has been ex- ments.
pended to convert a section of wet swampy Texas Gulf The recently activated AATC Band has proved a
Coast pasture land into a suitable living and training very popular source of evening entertainment. Only
area for soldiers has been somewhat successful. A true two cadremen and two fillers have been furnished for
appreciation of these improvements may be gained by this band but in spite of this lack of assistance from
comparing the accompanying pictures of Camp Hulen outside sources approximately twenty-two bandsmen
t\\'o years ago and Camp Hulen today. have been recruited from local talent. and this organiza-
The program of construction and conversion has tion now offers a repertoire of some two hundred selec-
been so comprehensive that today it would be extremely tions. In addition to three local concerts scheduled for
difficult for a member of the old 36th Division of the each week, the AATC Band furnished the supporting
Texas National Guard to recognize the Camp land- cast for a musical titled The Camp Hulen Review of
marks even though this was their home camp for many 1942 which was enthusiastically received by the local
years. Even the pictorial records of the changes are soldiers and was presented before a capacity audience
hard to believe but there are several thousand men and in Camp 'Wallace, Fort Crockett, and Ellington Field.
officerswho have a vivid memory of the months they Arrangements are now being completed to show The
spent here trying to carry out their normal duties and a Camp Hulen Review of 1942 for the men of Foster
training assignment while battling water and mud.
Field and the Naval Training Base.
Hard-surfaced roads and walks have made the battle
with mud largely a thing of the past and gradually as Several of the Camps are cooperating on a plan to
other projects for the improvement of the Camp have circulate shows. As each Camp develops a show it will
been completed the training program has become more be presented before the men of each of the other Camps.
efficient. Vve will probably never reach that static stage In this way each Camp will receive a series of shows and
of completion where there are no new projects and the the maximum entertainment value will be derived from
hammers and saws are all silent, but today there are a the effort and money expended on each program.

There are in the world two powers-the sword and


the spirit. The spirit has always vanquished the sword.
-NAPOLEON.
Camp Wallace
BRIGADIER GENERAL E. i\. STOCKTON, JR., COlllllUlIldillg AARTC

Camp \Vallace observed Independence Day with an Coast to assume command. A reception at the Officer's
Open I-louse program at the Camp. Rain caused the Club was held to bid goodbye to General Carrington
postponement of a parade in Houston of a Provisional and to welcome General Stockton.
Regiment comprising some 1,200 trainees from the The camp was visited on August 9, 1942 by ~Iajor
camp. An indoor program was arranged for the numer- R. E. Steele, Major Gerald Emanuel, Major D. Logan.
ous visitors to the camp during the day. and Major \V. D. lvladdison of the British Army. The
On July 16, Brigadier General Gordon de L. Car- visiting officers toured the camp and observed all de-
rington turned over command of the camp to Brigadier partments of the training.
General E. A. Stockton, Jr., who arrived from the \Vest Camp \Vallace's weekly newspaper, Tile Trainer,

Officers Pool class on the range.


19.J2 COAST ARTILLERY ACTIVITIES 115
Corpora] John A. Urbain, depicting various phases of
the trainee's career at Camp \Vallace. An ilL" shaped
porch is also under construction at the Service Club,
which will approximately double the capacity of the
lunch room.
A training battalion took over the role of an AA Gun
firing unit in addition to its tasks of training communi-
cation specialists and officer candidates. Battery A of
the battalion conducted a verv creditable taroet practice
• I:>

with 90mm guns at Fort Crockett on August 18. The


practice, a preliminary type, was conducted principally
for the training experience of the cadre members of
Battery A. The towing plane Hew at an altitude of 9,000
feet and the target was well covered with high explosive
bursts throughout each course.
Nurses learn about Chemical Warfare. The Camp \Vallace Softball team defeated the Kelly
Fie]d ten bv a score of 5 to 0 to win the Southwestern
celebrated its brst anniversary on August 21. The brst Servicemen\ Championship in the Houston \Var Bond
issue appeared on that date one year ago as a tabloid Tournament.
size paper. From that time the paper has grown in con- A three weeks' Battery Officers' course is being con-
tent and makeup, and at the present time provides a ducted for the Coast Artillery Officers' Rep]acement
complete resume of the weekly doings of the camp in Pool comprising a group of officers returning to duty
sportsand other happenings in a manner that rivals any with the Coast Artillery after a tour with the Air Corps.
city newspaper. The schoo] begins with the various basic subjects and
Recent additions of large sized ventilator fans to the progresses through the firings of everything from a
Service Club and the Post Theater have added to the caliber .30 weapon up to and including a 90mm gun.
comfort of the patrons of the club and theater. The In the Antiaircraft Gun and A\V firing, the weapons
theater is also being decorated with murals, painted by are manned by the officer students.
--

The JOURNAL can supply any book in print


at the usual Association diScount

read it in this book, occurred in the battle between the


The Armed Forces Spee and the three British cruisers off the Platte, when the
Standard Military History British dropped depth charges just about the time the
Germans' shots were due to fall. The resultant splashes
HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY. By confused the German gunners, who were not able to spot
Colonel vVilliam A. Ganoe. New York: D. Appleton- their shots.
Century Company, 1942. 556 Pages; Bibliography; Ap- f f f
pendices; Index; Illustrated; $5.00.
Civics Course
It would be hard to believe that any army officer who
SCHOOL OF THE CITIZEN SOLDIER. Edited bv
makes any pretense of keeping himself informed does not
Lieutenant Colonel Robert A. Griffin and Lieutenan't
have a copy of the previous edition of this book. This new
Colonel Robert A. Shaw. New York: D. Appleton-
edition, which brings the history of the army right up to
Century Company, 1942. 532 Pages; Illustrated; Gen-
the fall of Bataan, is up-to-date, even to the inclusion of the
eral References; Index; $3.00.
new pay scale in one of the numerous appendices.
Colonel Ganoe's book, which since 1924 has been con- Adapted from the educational program of the Second
sidered one of the standard military books, and probably Army, this book combines in one volume enough history,
the standard American Army history, does not need to be geography, and study of the organization of our own and
reviewed. A worthy review would take more space than other armies, to give the citizen, soldier or civilian, a fair
these columns can afford. It is enough to say that this idea of why we are fighting, how we are fighting, and what
volume belongs with the dictionary, the Army Register, we expect to gain by our sacrifices. Propaganda, the Con.
the World Almanac, and the I.D.R. on every officer's desk. stitution, the Navy and the Marine Corps, and the Air
Forces are treated.
If the book has any fault, it lies in presenting too much
Our Partner At Sea material. Without the incentive of an earnest desire to
learn or the pressure of organized study, the average per.
A LAYMAN'S GUIDE TO NAVAL STRATEGY. By son might find the going overly long, and lose interest ?e-
Bernard Brodie. Princeton: Princeton University Press, fore the important lessons are learned. The discriminatmg
1942. 276 Pages; Reading List; Index; $2.50. reader, who knows where to skip and where to concentrate.
Bernard Brodie, whose Sea Power in the Machine Age will of course have no trouble here.
has been received favorably by military readers, has written This is an excellent text for officers or other teachers who
a book for laymen that army officers especially will find in- must prepare citizenship or like lectures.
structive. With only bare references to history, Brodie
wades right into his subject.
Coast Artillerymen, especially, should know how fleets N umber Three, Rear Rank
operate, what they can do, and why they do it. This book
SEE HERE, PRIVATE HARGROVE. By Edward T. M.
explains the varied factors that influence the creation of
L. Hargrove. New York: Henry Holt and Compan~.
modern fleets and their employment, and does it in lan-
1942. 211 Pages; $2.00.
guage that is doubly clear to the soldier, since the book
was written for laymen. Remember the little fellow in your battery who ne\'er
The author has a sensible, almost conservative approach did a mean thing and had lots of friends, but who managed
to the so-called questions which take up much space in the to pull a punishment detail about three times as often ~s
public prints. He finds that even an air-strong nation must the average soldier? The things he did were never sen'
still have a navy-that each arm has its uses and its limita- ous-his rifle was dirtv or his watch chain showed. or the
,' be-
tions. He explains that long-range gunnery is more accu- inside of his locker was a mess. You hated to gig him
rate than even low-level bombing. cause you couldn't help but like him, but gig him yoU
A curious incident, unknown to the reviewer until he must,
19.J.2 BOOK REVIEWS 117
That was Private Hargrove, or at least it was the Har- stories are written for adults by an author who manages
groye Private Hargrove writes about. to tell the tales with humor, sympathy, understanding, and
This book is written in a light vein, but the subject is a clarity, never forgetting that it is the story of Fort Sill,
serious matter-the American soldier. Every officer would and not merely Indian anecdotes, that is his primary pur-
gain a little better understanding of his men if he were to pose.
read this book. He would learn how they react to such in- The author starts with a general picture of the Indian
tangibles as morale, patriotism, and the human desire for troubles of 1833, and carries his story in logical train of
advancement, as well as the slightly more tangible items of events up to the World War I days. The colorful char-
training, discipline and punishment, and the discomforts acters, both Indian and white, the breath-taking battles
of Army life. and other occurrences, and the continual impingement of
Private Hargrove is a close observer, a humorous and the white man's ways on the Indians lose nothing in the
interesting writer, and a fine example of the inept but in- telling.
telligent soldier. His book reflects these things; it is good -f -f -f
entertainment as well as a study in soldier psychology. When Husbands Depart
THE ARMY WOMAN'S HANDBOOK. By Clella
Reeves Collins. New York: Whittlesey House, 1942.
Moulded Men 192 Pages; Appendix; $1.25.
WEST POINT: Moulder of Men. By Major William H. It is a safe bet that any officer or enlisted man who is
Baumer, Jr. New York: D. Appleton-Century Company, separated from his family and facing action will feel easier
1942. 252 Pages; Bibliography; Index; Illustrated; $3.00. in his mind knowing that his wife has a copy of this book.
Major Baumer, a West Point graduate, and later a mem- Without letting down the bars on superlatives, this is the
ber of the Public Relations department at the Academy, most complete, most easily understood of the many books
has written a thorough guide to his alma mater, including the reviewer has read on the subject of handling financial
a bit of the past of the school and much about the present. affairs during the absence or after the death of the soldier
West Pointers will appreciate this book; it contains a sym- in the family.
pathetic estimate of the Academy's capabilities and its ef- Mrs. Collins doesn't merely mention death benefits and
fect upon the army of today and the armies of the past. the handling of funds, she tells how to handle many of the
The author stresses the fact that West Point is not only details, and tells it in clear language.
interested in preparing its graduates technically, but that The part of the book that deals with customs and cour-
its primary purpose is to turn out army officers with the tesies is also well done, being clear and detailed.
West Point conception of Honor, Duty, Country.
Major Baumer explains in detail how the West Point i
mould is impressed upon the cadets, and how this four- The Long Voyage
year course of rigid training is indelibly imprinted upon
Academy graduates throughout their Army careers. THE MFT. By Robert Trumbull. New York: Henry
Holt and Company, 1942. 204 Pages; Illustrated; $2.50.
The 1942 successor to Mutiny on the Bounty is the story
Soldiers Working of the three naval aviators who fought the sea for thirty-
four days on a rubber raft, and who walked up the beach
OUR NEW,ARMY. By Marshall Andrews. Boston: Little,
in a military manner when they found land, "in case the
Brown & Company, 1942. 225 Pages; $1.50.
Japs were looking." Practically every literate American has
Marshall Andrews, military writer for the \AIashington read either the story in Life magazine, or one of the
Post, has seen our new army in various stages of training, numerous newspaper stories, about the epic voyage of
and finds it good. This book, written for civilians, is full of Dixon, Aldrich, and Pastula.
praise both for the men in training and the army which Robert Trumbull spent a week-end with DixQn, the
trains them. It is disappointing inasmuch as Mr. Andrews leader of the trio, and this book is the result. It is the com-
has ignored the Coast Artillery Corps in his mention of plete history of the voyage. For a real story of adventure
the different branches. with the authentic American flavor, and a story that at the
same time is true, this is it. The Japs can't beat a nation of
people like these three sailors.
Fort Sill
CARBINE AND LANCE. By Lieutenant Colonel W. S.
Nye. Norman: University of Oklahoma Press, 1942. THEY WERE EXPENDABLE. By W. L. White. New
331 Pages; Illustrated; Appendices; Index; $3.00. York: Harcourt, Brace and Company, 1942. 205 Pages;
Roster. $2.00.
Carbine and Lance is the history of Fort Sill, written by
a fanner editor of the Field Artillery Journal. Colonel Nye This is the story of Americans who were second to none
spent years of research getting the material for this book, as fighting men-the Motor Torpedo Boat squadron that
andthe years were well-spent. There is a wealth of authen- did such fine work in the Philippines during the course of
ticateddetail in this history which is in marked contrast to our resistance there. W. L. White, one of our top-notch
the usual embellished guesses in works of this type. war reporters, interviewed Lieutenants Kelly and Bulkeley,
The history of Fort Sill is, of course, part of the history and Ensigns Akers and Cox, to put together the story of
of the Indians and the Indian wars. Colonel Nye's Indian a gallant band of Americans.
118 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL SePte"'b"-Octo~
r;::=====================~ Improvising e\'erything but courage, of which these PT
Boat men had plenty, the squadron harassed the Japs and
slowed their advance for precious days and weeks. Some

Professional Books of the starkest reading of the modem war is reproduced in


Kelly's matter-of-fact statements of the death and destruc-
tion caused by these little stingers of the sea.
FOR THE COAST ARTILLERYMAN
The retreat from Corregidor, in which the little boats
COAST ARTILLERy No.1 took Generall\IacArthur and selected personnel to the OUt-
(New and Larger Edition) lying islands, is told in detail. The squadron's later battles
The most complete volume on Coast Artillery tactics and
technique available anywhere. More than 1,600 pages, ap-
in the southern islands makes reading e\'ery bit as exciting
proximately 725 illustrations, numerous tables ..... $6.00 as the incidents around Corregidor and Bataan.
STATE DEFENSE FORCE MANUAL .. No. 42 \Vhen we put down this book, we can feel that men like
The book for the training of State Defense Forces. Com. these, and the men they describe in the fighting on land,
bines in one inexpensive volume practically all of the basic can never lose if they are given the training and the tools
military subjects. 484 pages; flexible Fabkote binding. $1.00
of war. There is nothing wrong with the individual Amer-
OFFICER'S GUIDE-Ninth Edition No. 28 ican.
The young officer's Bible. This is the volume that smooths
the path of the officer unfamiliar with military customs, and f f f
is the reference book of the older officer. A necessity for
the officer contemplating active duty $2.50 Pig Boats
BATTERY DUTIES, COAST ARTILLERY WHAT THE CITIZEN SHOULD KNO\V ABOUT
CORPS: A Checklist No. 15
SUBMARINE WARFARE. By David O. Woodbury.
The only summary in print of those varied duties that
come under the head of "housekeeping." While part of
New York: 'IV. \t\'. Norton and Company, Inc., 1942.
the administrative duties listed are prescribed in regula- 225 Pages; Bibliography; Index; Illustrated; $2.50.
tions, the larger part consists of those unwritten adminis-
trative customs that have gradually evolved into more or In this, the latest of the lengthening list of "Citizen"
less standard practice $.25 books, there is a slight departure from the usual policy of
S-2 IN ACTION No. 33 the series. lvir. vVoodbury permits himself more of the
By SHIPLEY THOMAS luxury of editorial comment and criticism than the otheI
The technique of securing information about the enemy in authors of the series.
wartime. Not a cut-and-dried textbook, this book draws This volume traces the development both of the sub-
heavily on the experiences of the author, ~ho has. "bee~
through the mill." A necessity for the regimental IOtell1- marine and antisubmarine measures, gives the reader a vie\\'
gence officer. .$1.50 of what goes on in a submarine during cruising and action.
RIOT CONTROL BY THE NATIONAL takes in a section on the submarine school at New London.
GUARD , " No. 35 and carries his subject right up to the present critical situ-
By MAJOR STERLING A. WOOD, Infantry ation of the Battle of America. He does not forget a chapter
Flexible Fabkote Binding $1.50 on the work of American submarines in the present war.
Library Buckram 2.00
On the whole, this addition to the "Citizen" books is in-
ROOTS OF STRATEGy No. 37 formative and interesting, and a worthy addition to an ef-
Edited By LIEUTENANT COLONEL THOMAS R. PHILLIPS
fective group of books.
Contains selections from Sun Tzu (500 B.C.), Vegetius
(390 A.D.), Marshal de Saxe (1732), Frederick the Great
(1747), and Napoleon. The maxims of the military masters f f
in one volume $3.00
THE SOLDIER AND THE LAW
By MCCOMSEY AND EDWARDS
No. 30
The Broad Picture
A brand new book to supplement Manllal for CourtJ-Mar-
tial. Foreword by Major General R. L. Eichelberger, Su- American Newsreel
perintendent, USMA, says, "Their two-fold mission, fi:st, AMERICAN REVEILLE. By Ward Morehouse. 1\Te\\,
'To prevent military delinquency; and s:cond, 'To ~r<?vlde
practical assistance to those concerned With the admlnlstra. York: G. P. Putnam's Sons, 1942. 248 Pages; Index:
tion of military justice,' is a most worthy objective." Every $2.50.
officer should have this book $1.50
Imagine watching a particularly fast, and a particularly
LEADERSHIP FOR AMERICAN ARMY
oood, newsreel for three solid hours. The camera takes
LEADERS No. 78
~ou through seventeen thousand miles of auto, tra~n ~nd
By MAJOR EDWARDLYMAN MUNSON, JR.
One of the most talked-of military books. A sane appraisal
plane travel. There are quick, pithy interviews w.lth Im-
of the task of leadership, written in plain language. It tells portant people and the little people, there are vIews of
hoUl to become a leader, without platitudes $1.00 plane plants and sailors and soldiers. Every word and
every picture is interesting, but when "The End" A.ashe
Order ALL Books From across the screen, there is a feeling of welcome relief as
well as of the termination of something very enjoyable ..
The Coast Artillery Journal \Vard Morehouse has done a peculiar job of writmg;
1115 Seventeenth
Street, N.W. the technique is different, if not new. He traveled acro~
WASHINGTON, D. C. the land, and then criscrossed back, interviewing e\'ef)-
body from the President to hitchhikers, and tells .in short
Use the Handy Order Blank on Page 128
meaty paragraphs what they said. All his questIons an
d
all his observations had to do with the war effort. The re-
19-12 BOOK REVIE\VS
119
riel\-er was struck with the fact that not. one of the people
with whom Mr. Morehouse spoke was still isolationist-
minded.
Reference after reference is made to the troops of the
Coast Artillery Corps; Mr. Morehouse says, in one place,
"~Iorale? It's up, way up. Particularly with the boys of
Professional Books
the coast artillery. If they're to be in the war they want a I' I
FOR THE COAST ARTILLERYMAN
rinoside seat and,. being where thev are, thev certainlv COMPANY ADMINISTRATION AND
,:,

hal-e it."
o..J.I,/,;

I Personnel Records (Twelfth Edition)


By LIEUTENANT COLONEL C. M. VIRTUE
The standard text on army paperwork. Every headquarters,
I from regiment to battery, needs a copy, and every officer

The Studied Approach I


I
who is responsible for administration
Kept up to date at all times ...
should have his own.
this edition covers all
I changes up to September I, 1941. Waterproof paper hind-
LIFELINES OF VICTORY. By Squadron Leader Mur- ing _ $1.50 No. 27
Full cloth binding ' _ _ $2.00 No. 26
ral- Harris. New York: G. P. Putman's Sons, ]942. ]5]
P~oes; Index; $2.00.
"
/: COURT-MARTIAL-Practical Guide No. 76
By MAJOR T. F. MCCAIlTlIY
Squadron Leader Harris' primary purpose in wfItmg Designed not to take the place of the /IImllidl for COllr/J-
Alarlial, but to supplement it, this book offers convenience
this short book seems to be to answer those impetuous souls, in reference that will save crucial minutes. Spiral binding
unhindered by knowledge of warfare in general or the permits it to lie flat, open at selected page; arrangement of
the book facilitates finding the needed page. Written by an
present facts in particular, who clamor for second fronts, officer of broad court-martial experience ... __ .... $1.00
attacks on Tokyo, or aggressive action from Dong Dang to
MAP AND AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH
Essen. As the author phrases it near the end of the book, READING No. 40
"This is no highly colored canvas such as those which have By COLONEl. W. F. HEAVEY
been so ably drawn by others with a more reckless brush Written for the combat officer and the noncommissioned
than I choose to wield. A picture of the storming of the officer, this profusely illustrated manual has been well
planned and effectively illustrated to make it a clear, con-
enemy stronghold, of smiting him hip and thigh, of cleav- cise, and easily understood text. Complete with maps and
ino him from chin to brisket, in just retribution for the ruin overlays _ _ .. _ $1.00
he'\as wrought, would be much nearer to our heart's de- MANUAL OF MARTIAL LAW No. 29
sire.This drab chiaroscuro of my painting only shows the By CAPTAIN FIlEDEIlICK BEIlNAYS WIENEIl
toilsomeroad of attrition we have to tread .... " 184 pages - _ _. " $2.00

The author explains, in lay language, the importance OUTLINES OF THE WORLD'S MILITARY
HISTORY No. 36
and difficulty of supply for any military operation, and he By BIlIGADIEIl GENERAL W. A. MnCIlEI.I.
carries through with names, places, and figures for the An analysis of military operations and the causes of success
operations of the present war. He points out repeatedly the and failure from 1500 B.C. to I91R-from Thothmes III
to Pershing. A valuable reference book-covers more than
dangers of committing troops to fighting when logistics 100 campaigns and battles $3.00
cannot keep up the pace.
HOW TO SAY IT IN SPANISH No. 32
Every one who has read Colonel Kernan's Defense Will
For the soldier who wants a quick introduction to Spanish,
Xot Win the War should read this book to help balance to make his needs understood $ .75
his viewpoints.
CURRENT SPANISH No. 173
By JOSE MAIITINEZ
For the more serious student. Conversational Spanish by an
instruclor at West Point. Practical, complete $1.00

Log of Events INFANTRY DRILL REGULATIONS


WITH BASIC TRAINING SUBJECTS
THE FACE OF THE WAR. By Samuel H. Cuff. New (Coast Artillery Edition) No.4
York: Julian Messner, Inc., ]942. 277 Pages; Maps; A brand new book, with all changes to drill regulations
Index; $3.00. including those of August, 1941. Designed for Coast Artil-
lery, it contains information not carried in the previously-
issued Infantry edition. Red fabkote binding; pocket
~Ir. Cuff, a television news commentator, has written size _ _ $ .50
and compiled what amounts to a well-designed and ar-
MANUAL OF MESS MANAGEMENT. No. 31
ranged log of the events of the present war. He has divided
Another new book, filling a long-felt need. Based on offi-
the log into time periods and geographical theaters in an cial material, there are 340 pages of useful information for
rderly manner, and has enriched the orderly mass of facts every officer and enlisted man whose duties touch on the
organization mess. Beautifully bound in water-resistant
Withclear, understandable maps. The author gives facts, buckram, this is a book to be used in the kitchen as well as
not interpretations. the battery office $2.00
The author himself was born in the Near East, and Order ALL Books From
Jivedthere from the building of the Suez Canal through the
The Coast Artillery Journal 'I
period of the first 'Vorld 'Var, part of which he spent as
an unwillino Turkish soldier. He knows the territory of 1115 17th Street, N.W. Washington, D. C.
I,
'Nhichhe writes. ' I
Use the Handy Order Blank on Page 128
This will be a fine reference book for future historians,
and should be valuable for today's writers.
120 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October
Gas!
\V AR GASES. By l\lorris B. Jacobs. New York: Inter.
science Publishers, Inc., 1942. 172 Pages; Index; Ap-
pendix; Illustrated; $3.00.
SPECIAL RATES \ Vritten primarily for the gas identification officer th
\V~rgas c~emist, t~e decontamination officer, and the h~h~
On Magazine Subscriptions officer, thIs book IS not of a type for beginners. \\'ritten
entirely from a scientific viewpoint, and a defense \'iew-
for Members of the point at that, there is nothing here of tactics-the author
sticks to his knitting, writing of identification, testing, and
decontamination.
Armed Forces f f f

Architectural Forum $3.00


Maps Plus
GLOBAL \V AR: An Atlas of V/orld Strateov. Bv Edoar
Atlantic Monthly 2.50 0) , "
Anse I l\lowrer and Marthe Rajchman. 125 Pages; Illus-
Fortune 6.00 trated; Index; $1.00.
Secretary of the Navy Knox, in his forward to this paper-
Forbes 2.00 bound volume which is dedicated to "the uncounted other
Hunting and Fishing (one year) 75 amateur strategists of the United States" says "In such a
changing world, an attempt like this is decidedly an experi-
(two years) 1.00 ment. Even if it turns out that this is less a definitive
Ladies' Home Journal * 1.00 answer to the problem (of presenting in 120 pages the
essentials for following the present conflict) than an im'i-
Life 3.50 tation to others to undertake the same job, there remains
the glory of exploration. And in the meantime, this atlas
Look 3.50 will have been of real help in visualizino the path of rico
(TwO' ane.year subscriptians. May be sent to' twO' tory. " 0

mailing addresses ar in ane bundle to' ane ad. The Honorable Secretary has \,:,ritten the re\'iew. This
dress. NO' special rate far ane subscriptian.)
atlas, with the well-written text that explains the lines on
Nation 3.00 the maps, is a real help in visualizing what is happening in
the world's theaters of war, and why it is happening.
Newsweek* 3.25
f i f
Omnibook 3.25
"Calling Satan the Devil"
Reader's Digest* 1.50
THE GUILT OF THE GERMAN ARrvlY. By Hans
Saturday Evening Post* 2.00 Ernest Fried. New York: The MacMillan Company.
1942. 381 Pages; Notes; Index; $3.50.
Time 3.50
(Daes nat apply to' air express areas.)
Dr. Fried sets out to prove not the guilt of the Gennan
army, but the guilt of the leadership of the German army
American Magazine 2.00 -those officers (the majority of the officers of the Regular
forces) who came from the nobility and the aristocratic
Collier's 2.00
landowners. vVhether or not he makes his case, the author
\Xf oman's Home Companion 1.00 has succeeded in giving us a fine history of the German
*These magazines may alsO' be purchased at the special army and the uniformed brigands of the Nazi party in the
rate far Day Raams, Libraries and ather installatians an period between the two \Vorld Wars.
army pasts. According to the author, Hitler is a creature of the Ger-
man officer class, who saw in him a means of keeping the
German military spirit (and their own place in the
scheme of things) alive after the post-war reaction. In fact.
Hitler was a political instructor for the German army be-
The next time )/ou order periodicals for fore he began his long rise to power.
Interesting facts crop up in the book: for instance, the
the club, day room, or yourself, get a
nobility shunned the technical branches of the arm~:.
quOtl1ti01J from There were fewer noble officers in the artillery and engl'

I The Coast Artillery Journal


neers than in any other branch. The famous Kapp putsch
failed because the army, after arranging the revolt success'
fully, had no program to offer after the putsch was ~ f~ct.
!I
I
1115 - 17th Street, N.\X'. \X'ashington, D. C. The author traces the beginnings of National SOCIalIsm
from that incident.
German military punctiliousness, including respect for
19-12 BOOK REVIE\VS 121
the rank of prisoners, is motivated, the author says, by the
feeling that if Germany loses the war, the German officer
class will be absolved from reprisal by the Allies because
the\' are not Nazis, but soldiers-as witness their observ-
an~e of military etiquette.
For peace in Germany after the war, the author proposes
not a large Army of Occupation, but to arm the enemies of
i\ational Socialism within Germany and to take away the
arms of the military.

Blitz
ATTACK. By F. O. i\liksche. New York: Random House,
1942. 262 Pages; Index; Illustrated; $2.50,
~lajor Miksche, a former Czechoslovakian officer, fought
on the Republican side in the war in Spain, and is now
MAGAZINE
with a Czech volunteer detachment with the British. This
book, published in a British edition under the title Blitz-
krieg, has already created much discussion in this country
among the officers who were able to obtain copies of the
work.
Attack is an analysis of the modern concept of offensive
warfare. It is a deep, searching analysis, and as complete as
is possible to put between the covers of one book to be sold
at popular prices. Major Miksche covers units from the
combat team to armies, and describes the tactics in a
manner that a civilian can understand and a soldier can
appreciate. The maps and diagrams are especially clear.
This book has been cited by other reviewers as one of
the most important military books of the present war. This
re\'iewer will not disagree. Subscribe for ALL
Magazines Through
The JOURNAL
Free American Support your OW1l

YANKEE FIGHTER. By Lieutenant John F. Hasey. JOURNAL


Boston: Little, Brown and Company, 1942. 293 Pages; The JOURNAL guarantees to
ll\ustrated; $2.50. meet the best price quoted by
any responsible agent for any
This is the story of a young American who lived in magazine or group of maga-
France for the few years before 1939, who began his mili- zines. We will supply any pe-
riodical published anywhere,
tary career as an ambulance driver in Finland, and by a in any language, at publish-
logical train of events ended that military career by being er's rates or lower. Hundreds
wounded with the Free French Foreign Legion in Syria. of current subscribers have
learned that The JOURNAL
From jewelry salesmen at Cartier's, vending expensive fulfills this promise to the
baubles to movie stars and royalty, to hard-bitten officer of letter.
the Legion is quite a jump for a spoiled and wealthy The JOURNAL'S service is
American youth, but Hasey makes the process seem as particularly valuable to sub-
scribers in the various services
reasonable as most things people do. because we understand the in-
The value of this book is not in the story of a hitherto tricacies of military addresses.
unknown American youth, but in his surprisingly keen
observations of European politics, the decay of France, and
the qualities that make a fighting man. The very lack of
background that Hasey brought to his varied experiences The next time you order periodicals
brings out more clearly the things he tells-the lack of con- for the club, day room, or yourself, get
fidence of the French soldier in his officers, the high regard a quotation from
manv Frenchmen feel for General De Gaulle, the exulta-
tion 'of a smoothly working tactical plan, and the let-down
feeling after the stab at Dakar. Hasey feels things emotion- The Coast Artillery Journal
ally, and his collaborator, Joseph F. Dineen, is successful
in transmitting the emotions to the written word. 1115 - 17th Street, N.W. Washington, D. C.
This is a book for youth to read for profit, and maturity
to read for satisfaction. It is the Haseys in this world who
restore faith in the triumph of the things we stand for.
122 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October
,,---------------

II
--- I
German T aeries
I' ENGINEERS IN BATTLE. By Lieutenant Colonel Paul
Field and Y\!. Thompson. Harrisburg: The l\lilitary Service Pul>-
\'II Technical Manuals
lishing Company, 1942. 108 Pages; Illustrated; $1.50.
Colonel Thompson, one of our clearest military writers,
I has chosen fifteen examples of engineer activity of the
Order these training publications from The
JOURNAL. Please inclose remittance with order. German army during the present war to describe and in.
terpret. The incidents described give us an easily under-
F11 4-10 Seacoast Artillery-Gunnery $ .25
stood picture of German engineers, how they operate, how
F~I 4-15 Seaco~~t A~till.ery - Fire Control and
PosHlon Fmdmg 50 they win successes, and how they fail.
Fl\I 4-20 Seacoast Artillery - Forations, Inspec- The chapter on "silent soldiers," or land mines, is of
tions, Service, and Care of ~Iaterie1... . .15 particular interest to soldiers of every branch. The Ger-
F},I 4-25 Seacoast Artillery-Service of the Piece, mans seem particularly efficient in the use of this weapon.
155-mm. Gun .15
The German methods of effecting river crossings are also
F~I 4-60 Seacoast Artillery-Service of the Piece,
12-inch Gun (Barbette Carriage) .......... .15 "must" reading.
Fl\I 4-70 Seacoast Artillery-Service of the Piece.
6-inch Gun (Disappearing Carriage) .... .15
F~I 4-75 Seacoast Artillery-Service of the Piece.
6-inch Gun (Barbette Carriage) 10
F},f 4-80 Seacoast Artillery-Service of the Piece, The East
12- and 14-inch Gun (Disappearing
Carriage) 15 The Jap Character
F1! 4-85 Seacoast Artillery-Service of the Piece,
16-inch Guns and Howitzers 15 JAPAN RIDES THE TIGER. By Willard Price. New
Ft.! 4-90 Seacoast Artillery-Service of the Piece. York: The John Day Company, 1942. 210 Pages; Ap-
3-inch Rapid Fire Guns (Pedestal pendix; Illustrated; Index; $2.50.
"fount) .10
FM 4-105 AAA-Organization, Training and Tac- Willard Price has known the Japanese for a long time.
tics 35 He has lived in Japan and Japanese-dominated lands for
FM 4-111 AAA - Position Findin<r and Control, many years. An observing and apparently skillful reporter,
Antiaircraft Searchlights .10
the author draws his pictures from the broad trends as well
F~f 4-112 AAA-Gunnerv, Fire Control and Posi-
tion Finding: Antiaircraft Automatic as the seemingly trivial incidents, and uses his words well
\Veapons 15 to explain the Japanese nation and the Japanese character.
FM 4-115 AAA-Searchlights, Sound Locators and such as it is.
Accessories 35 Price depicts the Japanese as fanatics, although not in
FM 4-120 AAA-Formations. Inspections, Service
and Care of Materiel 10 the sense emphasized in popular stories of Japanese fighters.
FM 4-125 AAA-Service of the Piece, 3-inch Anti- He finds them fanatics on the subject of Japan's mission
aircraft Guns .25 in the world, which strangely enough seems to be Nazi
FM 4-130 AAA-Service of the Piece, 105mm Anti- Germany's mission, although the author does not mention
aircraft Guns .15
the parallel-the mission of course is to spread the ad.
FM 4-135 AAA-Marksmanship and Service of the
Piece, AA MG's .20 vantages of their own peculiar brand of culture throughout
FM 4-140 AAA-Service of the Piece, 37mm Anti- the entire world.
aircraft Gun .15 The author makes much of the idea that Japan's modern
F:"I 4-141 AAA-Service of Piece, 40mm Gun 25 trappings do not indicate that she has accepted 20th cen.
F~f 4-150 Exaination for Gunners .10 tury ideas-on the contrary, all the science and all the rest
T1f 4-205 Coast Artillery Ammunition .15 of the modern knowledge she has acquired is being used.
T1f 4-225 Orientation 10
paradoxically enough, to strengthen the old feudalism and
TM 4-235 Coast Artillery Target Prictice .25
the rest of the doubtful glories of the past. In other words.
T1f 4-240 Meteorology for Coast Artillery .15
T11 4-245 Preservation and Care of Seacoast De- the outside world has brought Japan technique: and
fense Materiel .10 material things, but not new ideas. Two centunes of
TM 5-235 Surveying 70 feudalism is hard to eradicate.

.'
TM 5-236 Surveying Tables 040
I
T11 9-1360 Ordnance Maintenance, 3-inch AA Gun
I Materiel M2A2. M2Al, ~!IA2, 1flAl,
I TlA2, and TlAl .10 More of the Same
I FM 25-10 :"fotor Transport .10
YEAR OF THE WILD BOAR: An American \;\,Tomanin
FM 21-100 Soldier's Handbook 35 .. oU
FM 30-30 Identification of U. S. Govt. Aircraft... . .25 Japan. By Helen Mears. Philadelphia: J. B. LJppmc
FM 30-35 Identification of German Aircraft .20 Company, 1942. 346 Pages; $2.75.
F:"I 30-38 Identification of Japanese Aircraft .25 Stressing the "Never-never Land" quality of the Japa-
Use the Handy Order Blank on Page 128 nese people as well as of the country itself, Helen ~Iears
gives us the fruits of her stay in Japan, where she trJe~
The Coast Artillery Journal learn what She could of the nation and its people. f
. to a
author did not do her research from the vantage pOID
1115 17th Street, N.W. Washington, D. C. . hote lb'room, ut tne d consCIentiOUS~
., I, to 0oet as
luxunous
close to the people as possible.
19.J2 BOOK REVIEVlS 123
The most important point made in this book is that it ~
isa mistake to try to understand the Japanese people using
the Western \VorId as a yardstick. They are an entirely
different breed of cats. They have the faculty of ignoring
reality and emphasizing fantasy when it suits the purposes
BINDERS
of their leaders, and none question the motives or actions
of the leaders. Their entire life is bound up in the belief SEPARATE SIZES
that their only purpose on earth is to respect and enhance FOR FIELD AND TECHNICAL MANUALS
the glory of their Emperor, and in the countless manifesta-
tions of slz1l1um, or custom.
r Added to these attitudes is one of distrust of the West at
the same time they use those things of the \-Vest that help
the leaders of Japan.
~[iss j\Iears has done a fine job of reporting; it is the sub-
ject, not the reporter, that leaves the reader mystified as to
what the result will be when we have set the Rising Sun.

of of of

Points West \! MANUALS Do NOT GET LOST.


\! KEEPS MANUALS IN SYSTEMATIC ORDER.
I THE AGELESS INDIES. By Raymond Kennedy. New \! MANUALS REMAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
York: The John Day Company, Inc., 1942. 198 Pages;
~[ap; Index; $2.00.
\! No HOLE-PUNCHING NECESSARY.
,I INEXPENSIVE.
With true professorial thoroughness, Mr. Kennedy has \! RUGGED, DURABLE.
written a survey of the geography, history, social customs, \! EASY TO OPERATE.
and practically everything else of the Indies and the
serenty million people who inhabit them. The contrast be- Needed by ALL headquarters, from company to army.
tween the English and Dutch colonial systems is touched
upon.
This is not the newspaper reporter style of survey, but
$1.50
the scientific type-yet written with a minimum of terms (100/0 discO/wt il1 lots of 10 or more,
that are not familiar to the vast majority of adult readers. f. o. b. }fI'asbi11gtol1)
~ ~[r. Kennedy has written what should be a valuable hand-
book for officers who expect duty in the territory between
Australia and Japan.
As the author himself points out, much has been written
about the strategic values of the Indies, both from the
geographical and economic standpoints, but few authors
and fewer statesmen seem' to have given much considera-
tion to the people of the Indies, their desires, and their ef-
For The Firing
( feet upon lasting policy. Mr. Kennedy explains the prob-
lem without attempting to thrust a solution upon the
reader.
of of of
Battery
II I ESCAPED FROM HONG KONG. By Jan Henrik
~[arsman. New York: Reynal & Hitchcock, Inc., 1942.
249 Pages; $2.50.
Critchlow

Finder
Slide Rule
Special Slide Rule for Use With Height
.
$1.75

045
Irregular Curves . 040
Jan j\/Iarsman, a citizen of the Philippines and a con-
struction engineer well-known in the Orient, was in Hong Triangle, 45 ° . .35
Kongwhen the siege began. He became a leading member Triangle, 30°-60° . .25
of the citizens' committee that aided in the defense of the
city. Mil Protractor . 1.35
The author does not tell much of the military tactics Order tbrougb tbe
~sed by the Japs in taking the city-his impression of the
Job seems to indicate that superior fire power, unrelenting Coast Artillery Journal
pressure, and countless numbers of snipers infiltrating into alol1g witb your book orders.
and around the city did the job. He has no quarrel with
the bravery of the British who defended the city, although
he does question their judgment at times. Coast Artillery Journal
The greater part of the story deals with j\hrsman's 1115 Seventeenth St., N.W. \X1ashington, D. C.
period of captivity and with his escape from the Japs. His
details of atrocities tie up with many of the newspaper
stories we have read on the same subject.
-
124 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL September-October

German shepherd dogs, the author relates, are trained


to work as a team with the Jap snipers. The dog lOCates
Allied soldiers who are approaching the snipers. distracts

BEST SELLERS the soldier at the critical moment, and makes the sniper's
job much easier and much more effective.

There are excellent reasons why the follow- i i i

ing books outsell all others advertised in The Stolen Base


JOURNAL. These are basic books, needed by I STRATEGY AT SINGAPORE. By Eugene H . .\Iiller.
every officer, and the best books on their re- I' New York: The i\laci\lillan Company, 19-12. ]33
spective subjects. I
Pages; i\lap; Index; $2.50.
Journal Booklist
Number
COl\lP ANY ADl\lINISTRATION AND PER-
II
I
Professor i\ Iiller has done a particularly deep job of re-
,earch on the subject of the Singapore base. His numerous
quotations and references take in newspaper and publica-
SONNEL RECORDS (Twelfth Edition,
tions from New Zealand to London, with all way points.
July, 1942)
The book argues a surprising lack of continuity in
Colonel Virtue's book has become the bible for a
large number of orderly rooms and other military Britain's naval policy in the years after \Vorld \Var I-result
headquarters and offices. It is the recognized short- of the many changes in the British government during that
cut for getting battery paper-work right.
period. This asserted aimlessness of purpose was reRected in
26. Cloth Binding $2.00
the efficiency of the base; it is reasoned that nobody was
27. Waterproof Paper Binding 1.50
quite sure whether it was wanted or not, and if it was
OFFICERS' GUIDE (9th Edition, Jul.)', 1942) wanted, whether it could be defended or not. The impact
A new edition, just off the press, with new ma- of the base on Japan as well as upon Australia. Ne\\
terial on Supply including Circ. 105; Circular 111 Zealand, and India had to be considered. All in all, the
on Promotion; censoring soldiers' mail; and many
other up-to-date changes. entire history of the base demonstrates fully the difficulties
28. Cloth Binding $2.50 of attaining a coherent policy when many conflicting inter-
ests cannot come to agreement.
ORDERS
Published by the Adjutant General's School; de. l' i
scriptions and specimens of the different types of
orders. Ghandi, Et Al
152. $0.50
INDIA TODAY: The Background of Indian National.
COAST ARTILLERY ism. By W. E. Duffett, A. n. I-licks, and G. R. Parkin.
More than 1,600 pages of text, pictures, diagrams, New York: The John Day Company, 1942. ]73 Pages:
and tables. The most complete text on the CAC $1.75.
available.
1. $6.00 This book was first published in Canada as a pamphlet,
and was well received because of its thorough, dispassion.
ARMY WIFE (By Nancy B. Shea) ate, scientific approach to the facts behind the Indian p0-
Officers' Guide for the officer's wife. No army wife litical problem. It has been brought up to date and bound
should be without it.
151. $2.50 in cloth, at a time when India is not only a problem to her.
self and to Britain, but to every one of the United Nations.
THE SOLDIER AND THE LAW The authors, all Canadians, emphasize facts and do not
(By McComsey and Edwards) permit themselves the luxury of thrusting their opinions
Board and court records; information for the sol- upon the reader.
dier; a guide for members of the court.
30. i i i
$1.50

THE FOURTH HORSE;UAN Singapore to ---


(J. H. Doherty) ACTION IN THE EAST. By O. D. Gallagher. i\ew
How to set your personal affairs in order to pre- York: Doubleday, Doran & Company, 1942. 300 Pages,
pare for foreign service, or for peace of mind in
peacetime service. Complete blank forms. Illustrated; $3.00. _
39 $1.00 The reviewer started to take notes as he read this bOOk
I Use the coupon on Page 128. Order the books
that starts with the siege of Singapore, with the intention
of marking the important items to be mentioned in the re-
in the above list that you need; The JOURNAL view. If all the notes were used, the review would spread
.1 pays the postage. over se\'eral pages.

Order ALL books from


The tragedy of the British efforts in the East, as the kee
reporter from South Africa sees it, was a compound 0 f
many things-selfishness, arrogance, and the 100'eof luxUry
The Coast Artillery Journal of the colonial leaders in business and government; unbe-
1115 17th St., N.\V. \Vashingcon, D. C. lievably inefficient staff work; too few soldiers and th~
ill-equipped and worse trained to meet the seasoned an
wily Jap; fifth-columnists who were unmolested to the \'ery
2 BOOK REVIE\iVS 125
,.a: underestimation of the capabilities of the enemy; and
JlOSI outstanding, the refusal to put to use the lessons that
.,ere already learned the hard way.
!\1r. Gallagher certifies to the bravery and the devotion
lhe British soldier, Colonial as well as those from the
BOOKS
)lrilish Isles. FOR THE OFFICER
The A.V.G. pilots come in for a large share of 1\ Ir. Gal-
her's praise-his stories of them carry much of the color FOR THE SOLDIER
I the daily papers missed. The author finds the new
FOR THE CIVILIAN
inese army a well-trained, effective, well-disciplined
I Booklist
e lhat, given equipment commensurate with only a Number
all part of its needs and deserts, would give an account 168 Inside Asia, Gflnther $3.50
ilself that would make its stand to now look like child's 169 Time Runs Out, Taylor 3.00
".
As for the Jap, the reporter finds him an effective fighter,
I the rest of his opinion is practically unprintable.
I /
170 Am~~;~'~aS;ra~~~ ~~.~~~l~. ~~~i~i~~, 3.75
171 The Tools of War, Newman 5.00
This is a fine book for any officer or intelligent soldier 155 Mine and Countermine, Low 2.75
ho must meet the Jap, or who must fight in the jungle. 157 The German Army, Rosinski 4.00
r. Gallagher is that happy combination, a reporter with 101 Guerrilla Warfare, Levy 25
e eye of a soldier, and he has seen war as the Jap fights it. 154 Army Talk, Colby 2.00
39 The Fourth Horseman, Doherty 1.00
152 Orders (Adjutant General's School) 50
153 Automatic Arms, Johnson and Haven 5.00
Diggers
30 The Soldier and the Law 1.50
EET THE ANZACS. By W. L. Holland and Philip E. 77 Modern Battle, Thompson 2.00
Lilienthal. New York: American Council, Institute of 160 Pan-American Spanish Self.Taught 2.50
Pacific Relations, 1942. 48 Pages; Illustrated; Maps; 31 Manual of Mess Management 2.00
lOco 40 Map and Aerial Photo Reading 1.00
he authors have managed to cram many a fact and quite 42 State Defense Force Manual 1.00
few interpretations into this little paper-bound pamphlet. Company Adm. and Personnel Records:
ince the people of Australia and New Zealand are our 27 Paper 1.50
ry active allies, it behooves us to know more about them 26 Cloth 2.00
and their countries than the very little most of us have 28 The Officers' Guide 2.50
anaged to acquire. This pamphlet is a good start. 33 S-2 In Action, Thomas 1.50
29 Manual of Martial Law, Weiner 2.00
43 Maneuver in War, Willoflghby 3.00
44 Technique of Modern Arms, Muller 2.50
Miscellany 151 The Army Wife, Shea 2.50
78 Leadership for American Army Leaders,
Math Mf/nson 1.00
163 Great Soldiers, DeWeerd 3.50
ATHEMATICS FOR TECHNICAL TRAINING: 197 Sound Off! Dolph and Egner 3.50
Series of three books by Paul L. Evans of the Curtiss- 198 Russians Don't Surrender, Poliakov 2.50
Wright Technical Institute, California. New York: 199 Men on Bataan, Hersey 2.50
Ginn and Company, 1942. Single copies, $1.25. Com- 200 Get Tough! Fairbairn 1.00
plete set, $3.40.
201 War Planes of the Axis, Cooke 2.75
Algebra: A compact volume of 126 pages giving in handy 202 The Problems of Lasting Peace, Hoover
:e an exposition of the practical parts of algebra which and Gibson 2.00
IIbe a necessary aid to the technical and practical student. 208 Attack, l\1iksche 2.50
$1.25. 209 Mission to Moscow, Davies 3.00
Plane Trigonometry: A practical treatise of eighty-four 167 Chemical Warfare, Wachtel 4.00
es written in easily understandable language covering
the important elements of trigonometry used in engi- The JOURNAL can supply any book in print.
ring work to include seacoast artillery requirements. Usual membership discounts apply to all
volume includes five-place tables of common logarithms books listed.
numbers and of trigonometric functions, natural func- Use the Handy Order Blank on Page 128
ns and other pertinent tables.
'I c-+-9
$1.25.
Calculus: A condensation of differential and integral Order ALL books from
culus in 126 pages written in a modern explanatory
~hod for the student concerned with the practical appli- The Coast Artillery Journal
IOn of calculus to the solution of technical problems. 1115 17th Street, N.W., Washington, D. C.
$1.25.
126 THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL Septem her-Oetobe,

Inland Seas
II THE LONG SHIPS PASSING: The Story of the Great

adjutant qeneltal's I
I
I
I
Lakes. By \Valter Havighurst. New York: The .\Iac-
l\lillan Company, 1942. 275 Pages; Illustrated; Index.
$3.00 ..

~cltool
Journal Order
I It is hard to belie\'e that the Soo canal carries a larger
tonnage than the Panama, Suez, and Kiel canals together
but that is just one of the hard to believe facts related abou;
Blank Number our great inland lakes. Acceptance of the fact that the
larger lake steamers run to 640 feet and 12,000 tons
152. ORDERS. A brief description of the me-
chanics and uses of general orders, special burden makes it easier to understand that one of these
orders, memoranda, circulars and bulletins. ships can load 10,000 tons of ore in three or four hours and
..................................... 50c. discharge the same cargo in nine or ten hours. In fact. few
174. THE ARMY PERSONNEL SYSTEM. By of us, except some who have lived in the Great Lakes
Co!. H. C. Holdridge 10c.
175. GENERAL AND SPECIAL STAFFS. By region, realize the importance of these freshwater seas.
Lieutenant Colonel Frank 1\1.Smith .... 10c. \Valter Havighurst has turned out a grand book about
176. LEADERSHIP. By Co!. H. C. Holdridge. 10c. the lakes. He has captured the romance of the historv of
177. AD1\IINISTRATION OF THE ARl\IY. 10c. the lakes since the first white men saw them; he is at his
178. SUGGESTED STANDING OPERATING best in relating the tales of the storms and the lost ships.
PROCEDURE FOR A REGIMENTAL AD-
JUT ANT'S OFFICE 10c. And many a fine ship has been lost in these waters. where
QUARTERLY DIGEST OF DIRECTIVES. sudden storms and unheralded freezes make navigation a
Gives a complete historical list of all official risky business and where salt-water sailors are amateurs.
publications during the war period; has a The navigation season is short, and the long ships pass in
most complete index. No secret, confidential
or restricted matter is included. a never-ending file in the few months when the ice per-
I
185. Single Copies $ .50 mits.
I' 186. Subscription for one year (1942 only) .. 1.50
I
I AMERICAN UNITY AND ASIA. By Pearl S. Buck.
New York: The John Day Company, Inc., 1942. 140
Pages; $1.25.
vVe have in one volume a collection of articles, speeches.
and a letter to an editor written by Pearl Buck over a period
of a very few months in ,the early part of this year. The
102. WHAT'S THAT PLANE? A reliable guide theme of the entire collection is that of racial tolerance
in the identification of American planes and
those of our enemies: Japan, Germany and and unity-that democracy is not something that has one
Italy 25c. meaning when it suits our purposes, and another meaning
165. AIRCRAFT SPOTTER. By Lester Otto Pho- when it begins to interfere with our prejudices.
tographs, drawings, silhouettes, descriptions,
and a short course on the identification of -( -( -(
aircraft. The pictures of planes in action are
especially valuable $1.00 THE ARMY MEANS BUSINESS. By Herbert Corey.
192. WAR PLANES OF THE AXIS. By David Indianapolis: The Bobbs-Merrill Company, 1942. 298
C. Cooke. More than 200 photographs ac- Pages; Illustrated. $2.75.
company the descriptions of Axis planes in
this book. In addition to the pictures and de- Mr. Corey has written an exhaustive and optimistic ac-
scriptions of individual planes, there are
general discussions of the planes of each count of what the Army is doing, the obstacles it is meeting
Axis nation , $2.75 and conquering, and its methods of getting things done.
The author does not go into the training of Johnny Dough-
boy or the tactics of tanks in battle-he is more interested
in the production field, the red-tape cutting, and broader
picture of giving the man with the gun the things he needs
to wallop the Axis.
The F.B.I., the Army Specialist Corps, the civilian em-
No. 193 MATHEMATICS (Brenneman) $1.25 ployees, the S.O.S., and the rest of the agencies that keep
No. 194 MECHANICS (Brenneman) 1.50 materiel and supplies moving to the man in the field are
No. 195 STRENGTH OF MATERIALS (Bren- treated in detail.
neman) 1.50 -( -( -(
No. 196 BLUE PRINT READING AND
SKETCHING (Thayer) _ 2.25 AMERICAN JIU-JITSU. By Edward L. Allen. Bloom-
field: The Sun Dial Press, 1942. 82 Pages; Illustrated;
Use the Handy Order Blank on Page 128 $1.00.
The text and the action photographs are clear and ~asily
The Coast Artillery Journal understood. Mr. Allen, for twenty years a profeSSIOnal
1115 17th St., N.W. Washington, D. C. teacher of jiu-jitsu, has the knack of using simple, e\'ery-
day words in a manner that permits the student to concen-
trate on the subject rather than on the text.
Manual of Mess Modern Battle
Management UNITS IN ACTION IN THE SECOND
WORLD WAR
Over 300 Pages of Information
for Everybody from the By LT. COL. PAUL \V THOMPSON
B.C. to the Cook This book tells the authentic story of a dozen
or more battles ranging from the campaign in I
CONTENTS:
Introduction Poland down to the air. borne attack on Crete. In I
1. Feeding the American Soldier addition to showing the broad picture of these
2. Mess Management
campaigns the book also shows what went on in
3. Kitchen Management I

4. Cooking units as small as the platoon. III


5. Baking
6. Foods $2.00
7. Meats, Fish, and Poultry
8. Inspection of Subsistence Supplies Number 77 on the Journal Booklist.
9. Recipes
10. Mess Sanitation
Appendix (10.day menu, tables, etc.)
New mess officers will find this book indispen.
sable; old-timers will find it convenient. Not onl)' A BOOK LIST RECOMMENDED FOR
a book for officers, the MANUAL should be in the
hands of every person whose duties pertain to
feeding the American soldier.
ENLISTED SPECIALISTS
Number 31 on the Use the Order Blank FOR PREPARATORY STUDY
Journal Booklist. on Page 128.
$2.00 Practical Arithmetic, Part I (Palmer) $1.25

First Course in Algebra (Milne-Downey) ... 1.32

Plane Geometry (Palmer) 1.32


The Army Wife Hadio Handbook 1.75
By NANCY B. SHEA
Radio Amateurs Handbook , 1.00
Officers' Guide for the army wife.
Every army bride, and the wife of every
Reserve officer and National Guard offi.
cer should have a copy of this.
THE HISTORY OF THE I

$2,50
Number 151 on the Journal Booklist.
United States Army
By COLONEL WILLIAM A. GANOE

MA THEMAT res A new, revised edition of this standard mili.


tary book is now available. This is one of the
FOR TECHNICAL TRAINING
Booklist few books which appear on practically every
Number
210 Algebra S1.25 reading list for officers.
211 Plane Trigonometry (with rabies) .. 1.25
$5.00
212 Calculus 1.25
213 In one 3-Volume Set 3.40 Number 206 on the Journal Booklist

The Coast Artillery Journal


1115 Seventeenth Street, N.W. Washington, D. C.
"
BATTERY DUTIES
COAST ARTILLERY CORPS-A CHECKLIST
The only summary in print of those varied duties that come under the head of "housekeeping."
While part of the administrative duties listed are prescribed in regulations, the larger part consists
of those unwritten administrative customs that have gradually evolved into more or less stand-
ard practice.
HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE CHAPTERS IN THIS VOLUME:
The battery commander and The range officer The battery clerk
his officers The first sergeant The kitchen police and dining
The battery executive The supply sergeant room orderly
The administrative officer The gun commander The man in charge of the heat-
The mess officer The mess sergeant ing plant
The athletic and recreation The noncom in charge of The dayroom orderly
officer quarters
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how we are governed by it.
I The book will be of great value to court and
I
Name (Please print)
I board members, adjutants, sergeants major, and
I headquarters and unit clerks of all arms and
(Street address or box number) I- services.
I $1.50
(Town - Post) (City and State) I
ICA542) I Number 30 on the Journal BookJis:'.
I
Gnnners~Instrnetion
Pamphlets
NOW IN TECHNICAL MANUAL SERIES

TM 4-305 1st and 2d Class Gunner, Fixed Artillery 75ft


TM 4-310 Expert Gunner, Fixed Artillery 50ft
TM 4-315 1st and 2d Class Gunner, Mobile Seacoast Artillery 60ft
TM 4-320 Expert Gunner, Mobile Seacoast Artillery 55ft
TM 4-325 1st and 2d Class Gunner, Antiaircraft Artillery " 40ft
TM 4-330 1st and 2d Class Gunner, AA Searchlight Batteries 35ft
TM 4-335 Expert Gunner, Antiaircraft Artillery *
TM 4-340 1st and 2d Class, and Expert, Submarine Mine Batteries **
*Price not yet announced.
**Not yet a\'ailable. (G.LP. No. 12, Submarine Mining, still available at $1.25.)

lOro Discount on above Prices in Lots of 100 or More

ORDER ALL BOOKS FROM

The Coast Artillery Journal, 1115 Seventeenth Street, N.W., Washington, D. C.

Use the Handy Order Form on Page 128.

THE FOURTH ENGRAVING


HORSEMAN Your JOURNAL is prepared to give you
By LIEUT. COLONEL J. H. DOHERTY prompt service and quality workmanship
A complete handbook for the officer or at moderate prices on calling cards, wed-
soldier who wants to set his affairs in order
ding announcements, and other forms of
to protect his dependents in time of war.
engraving. Write for prices and samples
$1.00
Number 39 on the Journal Booklist. of engraving styles.

THE COAST ARTILLERY JOURNAL


1115 Seventeenth Street, N.W. Washington, D. C.
Use the Handy Order Form on Page 128.
HOW TO WIN
IN HAND-TO-HAND FIGHTING
As taught to the British Commandos and the
U. S. Armed Forces
By CAPTAIN \X'. E. FAIRBAIRN

1Jo.u do.n't need 64ute d-t4englA


No. 200 on the Journal Booklist
WITH YOUR BARE HANDS $1.00 (Single Copies)
YOU CAN BEAT THE MAN 25 or more 150/0 discount
50 or more 200/0 discount
WHO WANTS TO KILL YOU
100 or more 250/0 discount

A Colorful Marching Song!


The Coast Artillery's Own

~RASD ON! ARTILLERY


Officially adopted by the U. S. Coast Artillery Association
Band - 75 cents Piano Solo - 50 cents

THE OFFICER~S GUIDE


Ninth Edition, July, 1942
The Army is reorganized and geared for War. Today we have
the Army Ground Forces, the Army Air Forces and the Services
of Supply-streamlined and hard at work to win a total victory.
Today, THE OFFICER'S GUIDE is the only book to fully, com-
pletely and accurately describe the organization of a Fighting
Army.
No. 28 on the
Journal BookIist. 476 Pages; Index. $2.50
The Coast Artillery Journal
1115 Seventeenth Street, N.W. WASHINGTON, D. C.

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